The Importance of Self-Compassion

Are your friends perfect? (No, right?) When they fall down you pick them back up. Give yourself the same permission to be imperfect—just like every other human being.

Here’s why: People who practice self-compassion are more likely to eat well, exercise, and take good care of themselves, even when stressed.1 They’re also better able to maintain their weight loss!2

And the benefits don’t stop with weight loss: Studies show that when you take your successes and failures in stride, you may find that you’re less afraid of failure3 and more satisfied with life.4

Ways to do it:

• Cut yourself slack when you slip up or if things don’t go your way—while still being accountable for your actions.

• Think kind, encouraging thoughts about yourself when things are fantastic, and also when they’re not going so well.