Many of us have a tendency to measure our self-worth
by comparing ourselves to others. But when we fail to reach
our own, families, communities or societies 'ideals' this often results in
feelings of inadequacy, anxiety and low mood. We may become
self-critical, experience shame and a sense of being different from
others.
Although an improvement in 'self-esteem' is what we may feel we
want this is not necessarily what we need. This is because self-esteem is
often associated with times when things are going well but can fail us when
things do not go to plan. In contrast self-confidence, built from
self-compassion, can help us when things are going well and make us more
resilient when things are difficult.
This book uses the ideas and practices of Compassion Focused Therapy to help build
self-confidence. Attention is also paid to difficulties that often come
hand in hand with lack of self-confidence such as anxiety, depression,
substance use and anger.
by comparing ourselves to others. But when we fail to reach
our own, families, communities or societies 'ideals' this often results in
feelings of inadequacy, anxiety and low mood. We may become
self-critical, experience shame and a sense of being different from
others.
Although an improvement in 'self-esteem' is what we may feel we
want this is not necessarily what we need. This is because self-esteem is
often associated with times when things are going well but can fail us when
things do not go to plan. In contrast self-confidence, built from
self-compassion, can help us when things are going well and make us more
resilient when things are difficult.
This book uses the ideas and practices of Compassion Focused Therapy to help build
self-confidence. Attention is also paid to difficulties that often come
hand in hand with lack of self-confidence such as anxiety, depression,
substance use and anger.