Show yourself some kindness. | July 2020 Love Note

Connecting with people, being vulnerable in conversation, or simply being considerate of someone else has a lot to do with how we feel about ourselves. At the end of the day, how we relate to others begins with self-compassion. Here is how I am working on self-compassion in my own life. 

Being present. I'm working on being here, now. No rehearsing the future, and no rehashing the past. When I find myself rehearsing or rehashing (pretty much every time I get in the car or the shower), I simply remind myself to come back to the present. I focus, first, on my breath, and then I am mindful of noticing things. I pay attention to the trees whizzing by in the car, or the feeling of the water on my back in the shower. I come back to where I am, so that I don't miss the moments that make up my life. 

Being forgiving. Grace is a big part of compassion. Knowing this, I've shown myself a lot more of it. I remind myself that I don't always get it right, that I don't have to "create content" every day, and that it's cool if we have frozen pizza for dinner sometimes. Honestly, no one minds. Furthermore, I ask for forgiveness, and I also forgive myself. If I get snippy with my husband, or cut my sister off mid-sentence, or get worked up over something that wasn't really a big deal, I'm more conscious to recognize it, say sorry, and do better. 

Being kind. I don't talk to myself in a way that I wouldn't talk to someone else that I love. Period. I no longer do things like call myself fat, or come down on myself if I procrastinate on a deadline. In fact, if I feel myself even begin to think a negatively, I stop it right there and speak something affirming to myself. I reset the goal, and get back on the wagon. No negative self talk allowed. 

As we spend more time at home, and in many cases still isolated from family and friends, let's continue to find ways to be kinder, gentler, and more patient with ourselves. And let's make time to do the things that bring us joy. If cooking brings you joy in the same way that it does for me, then do yourself a favor and try out my July recipe. This Lemon Herb Spatchcock (basically, butterflied) Chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. And makes for great leftovers the next day! 

Also, this month's Table Talk Topics are ones that can be shared with friends. or that you can use as journal entry prompts for yourself. I am planning to do both! 

Take care, stay safe, and be kind to yourself! 

Love,
Maaden