If you are a regular reader of this blog then you know that we are passionate about compassion, particularly self-compassion as a way to strengthen relationships and lead a more fulfilling life. It is my belief that compassion is the core of truly loving ourselves and others. But what do you do if you are struggling to be compassionate? Maybe you grew up in a family that was not emotionally available or accepting, or you’ve had relationships that were abusive and damaged your self image, or maybe you don’t know why but there is a voice inside that says you are not good enough or worthy of unconditional love. Far too often we attempt to fill this void with things or other people with no success. What many of us need is a place to understand what that emptiness is about and then a nurturing, compassionate support system to help you begin to heal it. That is what therapy can do. A good therapist can offer you a safe haven in your life to take stock of your flaws and your emotional wounds in an effort to move on. As we often say at Group Therapy Associates, “everyone can use a little therapy” but maybe you aren’t convinced that your problems are “big enough” or “worthy” of the investment or that therapy can even help you. In those times it is useful to devote some time to evaluate where you are in all the areas of your life before you decide what to do next. Paul Brunson of OneDegreeFrom.Me offers 3 tips you can do on your own to begin the process of loving yourself more fully. Check out his vlog below and then tune in tomorrow afternoon to Everyone Could Use a Little Therapy, our BlogTalkRadio show tomorrow at 4:30 pm EST to hear Paul live chatting about dating, relationships, and learning love yourself and your partner. Don’t forget to call in live with your questions to 917-889-8994 or email them before the show to therapy@grouptherapyassociates.org.
