For When You Forget To Speak To Yourself With Kindness
Has self-criticism ever led you to speak to yourself in a way you'd never speak to someone you love? Your inner critic can get loud sometimes, filling your head with negativity and judgment. It's easy to forget that you deserve the same compassion and patience you give to others.
This space is here to remind you that your worth isn't measured by perfection or constant progress. You are enough, exactly as you are. The following prompts can help you soften your inner critic and treat yourself with the care you deserve.
You don't have to carry everything alone.
Moments when you deserve gentler words
- When you make a small mistake and call yourself "stupid"
- When you compare yourself to a friend's success and view yourself as a failure
- When you look in the mirror and only see your flaws
- When you spiral after receiving constructive feedback
- When you blame yourself for being “too sensitive" after having a hard day
- When you fixate on past mistakes like they're failures instead of using them as learning experiences
- When you miss a personal goal once and tell yourself you'll never succeed in life
Affirmations ▾
- I am enough as I am.
- I forgive my past self and honor my strength.
- Every version of me deserves compassion.
- I treat myself with the same care I give others.
- My mistakes are lessons, not failures.
- I am allowed to take up space as I am.
- I am worthy of kindness, even in my hardest moments.
- I am proud of myself.
- My worth is not defined by perfection.
- In every form, in every way, I am valid.
Did you know?
Chronic self-criticism can be associated with anxious and depressive symptoms, as well as other mental health concerns. While many people struggle with self-compassion, it can be worth it to work toward treating yourself with kindness.
Repeating affirmations, reading inspirational quotes, and getting to know yourself through journaling can make a difference in your self-talk. Explore these thoughtful journal prompts to help you recognize your strengths and move toward self-acceptance.
Quotes ▾
- “You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress.” – Sophia Bush
- “Self-compassion is simply giving the same kindness to ourselves that we would give to others.” – Christopher Germer
- “Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing we will ever do.” – Brene Brown
- “To accept ourselves as we are means to value our imperfections as our perfections.” – Sandra Bierig
- “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.’” – Mary Anne Radmacher
- “It’s not your job to be perfect. It’s your job to be human.” – Unknown
Journal Prompts ▾
- Write a letter to your younger self, thanking them for doing the best they could with what they had.
- Write a list of ways you’ve grown since childhood.
- What does “being enough” mean to you today?
- List three mistakes you are grateful for, and explain how they shaped who you are today.
- Describe what feeling safe and loved looks like for you right now.
- What part of yourself do you find the hardest to accept? How can you practice compassion toward it?
- Write three kind things you’d say to a friend, and then say them to yourself.
Moving forward
It can be easy to fall into a pattern of self-criticism, but you deserve to be treated with kindness and compassion. Treating yourself the way you would treat a loved one may be easier said than done, but it can greatly benefit your mental health and overall perspective. When you notice self-critical thoughts creeping in, try exploring one of the journaling prompts above to shift your mindset. If kinder self-talk seems impossible to achieve on your own, support is available. Get started by connecting with a therapist who can guide you.
Takeaway
- Your feelings are valid—heartbreak can feel like grief, and healing takes time.
- You’re not weak—strong emotions reflect deep hurt, not a flaw.
- Healing isn’t linear—ups and downs are normal.
- Small self-care helps—rest, journaling, movement build resilience.
- You’re not alone—many have walked this path; support helps.
In need of additional support? Explore the following resources related to recovery from self-criticism:
Developing A Mindfulness Self-Compassion Practice
Understanding What Is Self-Compassion: Insights On Mindfulness And Compassion
How To Be More Compassionate: Practicing Self Compassion And Loving Kindness
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