Getting rid of shame…

WEEKLY POST – I hope you have been able to spend time this week enjoying the longer days, increased sunshine and warmer temps. The advent of spring can be magical if you just let yourself lean into it.

Dealing with shame can be challenging, but it's important to remember that everyone feels ashamed at times, and it's a normal emotion. Here are some steps to help you deal with shame:

• Recognize and accept your feelings: Acknowledge that you're feeling ashamed. It is okay to feel this way, and it doesn't mean there is something wrong with you.

• Identify the cause: Try to understand what triggered your feelings of shame. Was it something you did or said? Was it something someone else did or said to you?

• Challenge negative thoughts: Don't be too hard on yourself. Replace negative thoughts with more positive and realistic ones. Remember that everyone makes mistakes.

• Talk about it: Share your feelings with someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or counselor. Talking about your shame can help you feel less alone and more supported.

• Learn from it: Use your experience of shame as an opportunity for growth. Think about what you can learn from the situation and how you can do things differently in the future.

• Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. Treat yourself with the same understanding and forgiveness that you would offer to a friend in a similar situation.

Remember, it's okay to ask for help if you are struggling to deal with feelings of shame. You don't have to go through it alone. So give some thought to how you can push back against shame in your life.