Be Kind to Yourself: Lessons in Self-Compassion from Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o is a celebrated actress, writer, and filmmaker, who is best known for her role in the movie “12 Years a Slave.” Aside from her success in the entertainment industry, she has also become an advocate for self-compassion, particularly after struggles with self-esteem and self-doubt early on in her career. In this article, we will explore the lessons in self-compassion that we can learn from Lupita Nyong’o.

Lesson 1: Recognize the Importance of Self-Compassion

Lupita Nyong’o believes that self-compassion is crucial to overcoming challenges and achieving success. In an interview with Elle magazine, she said, “You cannot accomplish anything in life without self-compassion. It is important to have kindness toward yourself and acceptance of your challenges and limitations.”

Nyong’o recognizes that self-compassion is not always easy, especially when we are our own harshest critics. However, she says that it is important to remember that we are only human and that we will make mistakes. Rather than beating ourselves up over our failures, she encourages us to treat ourselves with kindness and understanding.

Lesson 2: Turn Negative Thoughts into Positive Ones

Negative self-talk can be incredibly damaging to our self-esteem and well-being. Lupita Nyong’o has experienced this firsthand, saying that she used to be her own worst critic. However, she has learned to turn negative thoughts into positive ones. Instead of focusing on her flaws and shortcomings, she now reminds herself of her strengths and accomplishments.

One strategy Nyong’o uses to turn negative thoughts into positive ones is to keep a gratitude journal. Each day, she writes down three things she is grateful for, no matter how small they may seem. This exercise helps her to shift her focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right in her life.

Lesson 3: Practice Self-Care

Self-compassion also means taking care of ourselves physically, mentally, and emotionally. Lupita Nyong’o makes self-care a priority in her life, saying that she regularly goes for walks, eats healthy food, and meditates. She also takes breaks when she needs them and does not push herself beyond her limits.

Nyong’o acknowledges that self-care can be challenging, especially when we are busy or stressed. However, she says that it is important to make time for self-care, even if it is just a few minutes a day. She also encourages us to find self-care practices that work for us, as everyone’s needs are different.

Lesson 4: Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

Comparing ourselves to others is a trap that can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Lupita Nyong’o has experienced this firsthand, saying that she used to look at other actresses and think she would never measure up. However, she has learned to embrace her own unique qualities and not compare herself to others.

Nyong’o encourages us to do the same, saying that we are all here for a different purpose and that our individual qualities are what make us special. Rather than trying to be like someone else, she encourages us to focus on being the best version of ourselves.

Lesson 5: Be Kind to Yourself When Faced with Setbacks

Setbacks are a part of life, but they can be particularly difficult for our self-esteem and confidence. Lupita Nyong’o has experienced setbacks in her career, but she has learned to be kind to herself when faced with them. Rather than blaming herself or giving up, she uses setbacks as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Nyong’o encourages us to do the same, saying that setbacks are not a reflection of our worth or abilities. She believes that self-compassion can help us bounce back from setbacks and explore new opportunities.

Lesson 6: Surround Yourself with Positivity

The people we surround ourselves with can have a major impact on our self-esteem and well-being. Lupita Nyong’o surrounds herself with people who are positive and supportive of her goals and dreams. She believes that having a strong support system can help us overcome challenges and stay motivated.

Nyong’o encourages us to seek out positive influences in our lives, whether it be friends, family, or mentors. She also reminds us to be kind to ourselves and not to let negative people bring us down.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lupita Nyong’o’s lessons in self-compassion can inspire us to be kinder to ourselves and overcome challenges with grace and resilience. By recognizing the importance of self-compassion, turning negative thoughts into positive ones, practicing self-care, avoiding comparisons, being kind to ourselves when faced with setbacks, and surrounding ourselves with positivity, we can cultivate a life of self-love and discovery.