Serenity Sphere
SELF-Compassion
Tina Spagnola, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, NE-BC
Welcome to the Serenity Sphere. This quarter, we will focus on the concept of self-compassion. It is often observed that we are more critical and less forgiving toward ourselves than we would be towards others. Consider how you respond to your own mistakes—whether it's forgetting an item requested by a patient, failing to follow up with a colleague, or missing a deadline. In such instances, do you engage in self-talk similar to that of a supportive friend or do you adopt the role of a harsh critic?
Research indicates that practicing self-compassion can significantly mitigate anxiety and depression, thereby enhancing overall mental health. Embracing self-compassion fosters resilience and adaptability in challenging situations. Individuals who develop this quality tend to find greater meaning in their work; they fear failure less and thus exhibit increased creativity in problem-solving (Harrison, 2022).