Self-Critique vs. Self-Compassion
This month we’re talking about Champions, Captains, and Legends. We’re learning how to lead with heart and follow in their footsteps.
How do Champions manage self-critique vs. self-compassion?
Champions find the balance between a healthy level of self-criticism and self-compassion. Leading with the heart means accepting who we are (self-compassion). It also means being true to ourselves and pushing for growth through identifying what needs to be done (self-criticism).
The Research
Research has suggested that self-compassion can work to soften the negative effects of self-criticism, resulting in a willingness to practice to improve. It is important for us to show self-compassion to help us manage the stress of performance and promote an optimal headspace.
But this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be critical of ourselves. We may find a level of self-criticism beneficial, such as increasing our drive to train or protecting us against overconfidence and complacency. Research suggests if we as athletes strive to better our best rather than focus on what has gone wrong with our performance, then it can help our accomplishments (and well-being). Therefore self-criticism, if used in the correct way, is beneficial for performers too.
Athletes need to find the balance between a healthy level of self-criticism and self-compassion. Leading with the heart means accepting who we are (self-compassion). It also means being true to ourselves and pushing for growth through identifying what needs to be done (self-criticism). All this leads us to self-improve to be better every day.
The Result
Self improvement, day by day, leads you to greatness.
Start with head, end with the heart.
Speak soon,
The Sportmi Team
