5 Strategies For Coping With Shame

Navigating the murky waters of self-criticism and shame isn't exactly a walk in the park, but it's a journey worth taking to reach a sunnier state of mind. Here's a friendly guide on how to turn those self-doubting whispers into a chorus of self-support:

1. Spot the Gloomy Guests:

Think of those negative thoughts like uninvited guests popping up at your mental dinner party. Keep an eye (or an ear) out for them. When they show up, scribble them on paper or just acknowledge them in your head. Notice the harsh words you're serving yourself.

2. Have a Heart-to-Heart with Your Thoughts:

It's time to get real with those thoughts. Sit them down and have a good, old-fashioned heart-to-heart. Are they telling you the truth, or are they spinning tall tales based on old yarns or misunderstandings? You might just catch them stretching the truth.

3. Invite Some New Perspectives to the Party:

Now, imagine a dear friend joins your dinner party. What would they say about all this? They'd probably have a whole different take on your actions or choices. Let their imagined responses offer you a fresh, kinder angle to view things from.

4. Be Your Own Bestie:

Time to switch up the self-talk. If you wouldn't say it to your best friend, don't say it to yourself. Embrace your inner best friend and give yourself the pep talks, high-fives, and the 'it's okay, you've got this' that you deserve. Remember, everyone trips up now and then, and it doesn't make you any less amazing.

5. Toss Out Those Out-of-Reach Expectations:

Oh, and about those sky-high standards that trip you up and invite shame to your mental bash? Let's bring those down a notch. They're like balloons that float off – pretty to look at but impossible to hold onto. Let's keep things real and reachable.

There you have it – 5 simple strategies for turning the tables on shame. Keep these steps in your back pocket, and you'll be well on your way to a kinder, gentler mindspace.