10 Therapy Tips for More Compassion:
As parents, we tend to be the glue holding everything together, and it’s easy to forget that we need care too. Therapy can be a powerful way to refocus on our wellness nurture our self-compassion.
Here are ten tips to help you make the most of your therapy sessions:
1. Carve Out Your Time
Life is hectic, but therapy is your chance to focus solely on you. Schedule your sessions during quieter times when you’re less likely to be interrupted, and treat them as sacred self-care moments.
2. Define What Self-Compassion Means to You
Before you begin, take some time to think about what self-compassion looks like in your life. Is it about being kinder to yourself, letting go of perfectionism, or allowing yourself to rest? Knowing what you want to work on can guide your therapy.
3. Be Vulnerable and Honest
Therapy is a space where you can let down your guard. Be open about the struggles you face as a mom and how they affect your self-compassion. The more you share, the more your therapist can support you in finding ways to be gentler with yourself.
4. Take Small, Gentle Steps
Therapy is about progress, not perfection. Instead of trying to overhaul your mindset overnight, focus on small, manageable changes. Celebrate each step forward, no matter how small, as a victory in your journey toward greater self-compassion.
5. Explore the Barriers
Discuss with your therapist what might be getting in the way of self-compassion. Is it guilt, fear of being seen as selfish, or feeling unworthy of care? Understanding these barriers is the first step in overcoming them.
6. Be Patient and Kind to Yourself
Change takes time, especially when it comes to being kinder to yourself. Remind yourself that therapy is a process, and it’s okay to have setbacks. Treat yourself with the same patience you would offer a friend.
7. Practice Self-Compassionate Actions
Between sessions, engage in activities that reinforce self-compassion. This might be as simple as taking a moment to breathe deeply, enjoying a favorite hobby, or giving yourself permission to say no to something that feels overwhelming.
8. Make Consistency a Priority
Even with a packed schedule, consistency in therapy is crucial. Regular sessions keep you on track and allow you to build on the progress you’ve made. Try to maintain a rhythm that fits your lifestyle, even if it’s just a few minutes of reflection each day.
9. Speak Up About Your Needs
If you feel like therapy isn’t addressing your self-compassion goals as much as you’d like, let your therapist know. Therapy should be a collaborative process where your needs and priorities are at the forefront.
10. Integrate Self-Compassion Into Daily Life
After each session, reflect on what you’ve learned and consider how you can bring more self-compassion into your daily routine. It could be as simple as replacing self-critical thoughts with kinder ones or setting aside time each day to check in with yourself.
For moms, therapy is an invaluable tool for cultivating self-compassion.
By prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being, you’re not only benefiting yourself but also modeling self-care and kindness for your children. Remember to fill your cup so it can overflow to those you love.