Self-Compassion

International Women’s Day is often a celebration of strength, achievement, and resilience. Yet behind many women’s accomplishments sits a quieter reality: exhaustion, self-criticism, and a persistent sense of “not doing enough.”

Many women we meet in therapy describe holding themselves to exceptionally high standards. They are capable, caring, and committed. Internally, however, their self-talk can be harsh and unforgiving. Mistakes feel amplified. Rest feels undeserved. Boundaries feel uncomfortable and unfair.

Do you ever find yourself trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and criticism? That relentless voice inside your head that picks apart every decision, every action, leaving you feeling inadequate and unworthy? You’re not alone. Many of us grapple with our inner critics, especially during times of stress, anxiety and depression. But what if you could learn to tame that voice, to quiet its harsh judgements and cultivate a kinder, more compassionate inner dialogue?

It’s likely that every day you hear someone else calling themselves “stupid” or “idiot” when they make a small mistake. Conversely, if they did something well, they might use self-deprecating humour to deny themselves credit or praise. Self criticism to varying degrees has become commonplace in our society and it exists on a spectrum. Typically the content of our own self critical thoughts is cruel and the tone very cold, harsh and attacking.