How To Be KINDER To Ourselves | Mo Gawdat And Sarah Ann Macklin On True Self Compassion

Daily Practices

Sarah Ann Macklin emphasizes the importance of practicing self-compassion through daily routines and mindfulness. She suggests treating oneself with the same kindness one would offer a friend, such as cooking a nice meal just for oneself 1. Mo Gawdat and Sarah discuss how self-kindness can help people move forward more quickly and make more rational decisions 2.

I always try and say to yourself, like, at least once a week, do that for yourself or do something that you would do for someone else that you're just going to do for yourself, because we never do it.

--- Sarah Ann Macklin

Mindfulness, such as being present in the moment and noticing new things in familiar environments, is another way to practice self-compassion 1.

   

Mindfulness

Mindfulness plays a crucial role in self-compassion and has significant health benefits. Sarah shares studies showing how mindset can impact physical health, such as improved vision and muscle mass in elderly participants who believed they were living in the 1950s 3. She also highlights how hotel maids who were told their work was equivalent to exercise saw health improvements 3.

Our bodies are literally reacting to what we're being told.

--- Sarah Ann Macklin

Sarah believes that mindset is often more important than diet when it comes to health, as a positive mindset can drive better dietary habits and overall well-being 4.

   

Self-Judgment

Avoiding self-judgment is key to cultivating a kinder, more compassionate mindset. Sarah explains that being mindful helps people make better decisions and appreciate their food more 5. She also discusses the harmful effects of personalization, where individuals believe they are the only ones experiencing difficulties 5.

To be human is to be imperfect.

--- Sarah Ann Macklin

Sarah shares that self-compassion leads to greater motivation and success, as people who are kind to themselves are less likely to wallow in self-pity and more likely to take positive actions 3.