Speak to Yourself with Kindness: Helpful Coping Statements
Hey there,
If you’ve ever caught yourself being your own worst critic, you’re not alone. Our minds have a natural tendency to focus on the negative—doubting us, criticizing us, or reminding us of every mistake we’ve ever made. It’s not a personal flaw—it’s just how human brains work!
The good news? You don’t have to buy into everything your mind tells you. Instead of getting stuck in self-criticism or doubt, you can practice speaking to yourself with kindness and encouragement—just as you would for a close friend.
Helpful Coping Statements
You don’t have to believe these statements right away—sometimes just practicing them can make a difference. Find the ones that feel supportive for you, or create your own.
For General Self-Compassion
I am doing the best I can with what I have.
It’s okay to feel this way.
I don’t have to be perfect to be worthy.
Everyone struggles sometimes—I am not alone.
I deserve kindness, just like anyone else.
I am learning and growing every day.
I will treat myself with the same kindness I offer others.
For Difficult Emotions
This feeling is temporary—it will pass.
It is okay to struggle.
I have felt this way before, and I got through it.
I don’t need to buy into everything my mind tells me.
I can sit with this feeling without letting it control me.
I can take things one moment at a time.
I am allowed to rest and take care of myself.
For Self-Doubt or Criticism
My worth is not defined by my struggles.
I am enough, exactly as I am.
I am allowed to be a work in progress.
I can’t change the past, but I can choose my next step.
Mistakes do not define me.
I am allowed to forgive myself.
Growth comes from mistakes—I am learning.
Everyone makes mistakes; it’s part of being human.
For Fear or Uncertainty
I don’t have to figure everything out at once.
I can handle discomfort—I have done it before.
Uncertainty is part of life, and I can navigate it.
I can focus on what I can control.
I don’t need to have all the answers to move forward.
It is okay to feel anxious.
Making It Personal
Not every statement will resonate with you, and that’s okay. The key is to find the ones that feel supportive and practice them regularly—even if they don’t feel “true” right now.
Try this: Pick three statements from the list (or create your own) and write them down somewhere visible. When your mind is being harsh, pause and ask: What would I say to a close friend in this situation? You deserve the same kindness and support.
Take care,
Jayne