When we hear a suggestion to engage in self compassion there can be resistance thinking that we will become indulgent, make excuses or generally let ourselves off the hook. But Dr. Jeni Shannon, Director of Mental Health and Performance Psychology for UNC Chapel Hill, explains that having self-compassion can actually allow us to perform better and push ourselves in ways we can’t when we fear failure and criticism. Self-compassion is not only an important tool in getting through this difficult time, but is a skill that can improve our performance in athletics, academics, work, and our lives.
