Self-Compassion

For instance, in the workplace, a “positive work environment” is widely considered a ‘green flag’. However, the idea of a positive work environment can differ from person to person. ‘Positive’ does not always mean ‘easy’ or ‘stress-free.’ In fact, a challenging environment can also be seen as positive, since demanding settings offer valuable opportunities for growth. Here, resilience becomes essential, benefiting both employees and the organization in the long term. 

According to Rachel Goldsmith Turow, a psychotherapist from Seattle University, resilience refers to the ability to manage stress effectively. It does not always mean bouncing back to where you were before. Sometimes resilience reflects personal growth or new strengths developed during tough times. In the workplace, resilience equips employees to handle workplace challenges and conflict while also maintaining or increasing job satisfaction (Patrick, 2024). So, how can we develop selfresilience? Several factors contribute to resilience, including physical exercise, adequate sleep, supportive relationships, meditation, engaging in hobbies, and practicing selfcompassion (Turow, 2024).

Among these, self-compassion is often misunderstood, sometimes seen as a weakness or self-centeredness. In professional settings, self-criticism is more commonly used as a motivator. However, self-compassion with the right amount can be a more effective motivator than self-criticism, as said by Dr. Kristin Neff an associate professor of Human Development and Culture at the University of Texas. The more we can accept ourselves, the more capable we are to change and take risks, and the less anxious we become about failure (Neff, 2024).