When we fail, our inner voice often speaks harshly and critically to ourselves. The concept of self-compassion can help us face our shortcomings constructively and gently, just as we would comfort a friend in a similar situation. So, what does fierce self-compassion mean? It is a concept developed by American professor Kristin Neff, focusing on the next level of self-esteem; taking brave action to meet and resolve the challenges.
Learn more about the concept of fierce self-compassion by reading Oasis of Radical Wellbeing's project lead, psychologist Merita Petäjä's blog post and the new episode of The Best Thing Today psychology podcast series, where Aalto University psychologist Paula Sjöblom interviews Merita on the topic.
Remember also to have a look at the other Aalto University wellbeing materials (blog posts, podcasts, videos, training and news) in the Media Hub of the Oasis of Radical Wellbeing project.
Fierce self-compassion means learning to harness our anger and transform it into qualities like courage and strength. Instead of being emotionally reactive, it means finding space to work the anger out, transforming it into actions.
We tend to think that when we are demanding towards ourselves, we perform better, and that self-compassion leads us to lower performance, laziness and too much comfort.
