Practicing self-compassion is treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. Being hard on yourself during anxious times can make things worse, but being patient and gentle with yourself can help with reducing anxiety.

When we’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed, it’s easy to get caught up in negative self-talk, telling yourself that you’re not strong enough or capable enough to handle the stress.

It’s okay not to have everything figured out.

University of Houston professor Brené Brown is known for her work on vulnerability and shame emphasizing the importance of treating ourselves with kindness, especially when facing challenges.

She openly shares her own struggles with perfectionism and self-criticism, encouraging others to embrace their imperfections and practice self-compassion as a way to build emotional resilience and authenticity.

Brown says, “Talk to yourself like you would to someone you love.”

This is worth sharing with someone special.