Self-Compassion: An Alternative Conceptualization of a Healthy Attitude Toward Oneself

This article defines and examines the construct of self-compassion. Self-compassion entails three main components: (a) self-kindness-being kind and understanding toward oneself in instances of pain or failure rather than being harshly self-critical, (b) common humanity-perceiving one's experiences as part of the larger human experience rather than seeing them as separating and isolating, and (c) mindfulness-holding painful thoughts and feelings in balanced awareness rather than over-identifying with them. Self-compassion is an emotionally positive self-attitude that should protect against the negative consequences of self-judgment, isolation, and rumination (such as depression). Because of its non-evaluative and interconnected nature, it should also counter the tendencies towards narcissism, self-centeredness, and downward social comparison that have been associated with attempts to maintain self-esteem. The relation of self-compassion to other psychological constructs is examined, its links to psychological functioning are explored, and potential group differences in self-compassion are discussed.