Lets Talk Self-Forgiveness

Dearest, it's time you soften your heart and have some self-compassion. We all have those cringe-worthy moments when our actions just don't match up to our values. Trust me, I've been there more times than I can count. Maybe it was a thoughtless comment that hurt someone we love. Losing patience and yelling when we should've taken a breath. Passing judgment rather than extending compassion.

In those times, it's so tempting to beat ourselves up endlessly, caught in a shame spiral replaying the situation. But I've learned self-criticism just weighs us down rather than lifting us up. It keeps us stuck in the past when the real growth comes from asking, how can this help me become my best self moving forward?

So I try to approach my mistakes more curiously than critically. I get real with myself - what old wound or insecurity was triggered that I need to address? Rather than swirling in anger at myself, I offer understanding and forgiveness. I picture hugging my imperfect heart, remembering I'm worthy even when I falter.

If my actions impacted others, I take responsibility and make amends when I can. I know I can't force reconciliation, but I can clean up my side of the street with humility.

Most importantly, I reflect on what I can learn rather than just regretting. How I can realign my reactions with my highest values like kindness, wisdom and gratitude? Just taking that question seriously puts me back on track.

Of course some days the self-judgment still sneaks in. When it does, I visualize handing shame and regret over to the universe - stuffing it into a balloon I release to the sky or leaves I float down a stream. I focus on releasing rather than reliving the past.

Here's what I know - we all stumble sometimes, but our worthiness remains unchanged. With an open, forgiving heart, even our failures become teachers. So breathe deep and keep walking forward as your most loving self. I'm right here cheering you on.