How Self-Forgiveness is the Antidote for a Healthy Workplace

Self-forgiveness may seem too vulnerable a topic for the board room, in a workplace, or within an organization. Yet self-forgiveness is necessary to create powerful leaders, healthier mindsets, and a more connected culture.

In the fast-paced world we live in, it's easy to be our own biggest critics, constantly dwelling on past mistakes and missed opportunities. However, the power of self-forgiveness is transformative, allowing us to break free from the weight of our inner critic, and embark on a journey of powerful leadership.

Why is self-forgiveness so important in the workplace?

Well, with success comes risk.

And with risk comes failure.

Failure can upheaval our inner critic and our imposter syndrome, and hold us in a state of playing small. After making mistakes, we may feel less inclined to try something new or to speak up for what we believe in, out of fear or anxiety of messing up again.?

We carry pressure and stress to strive and be successful, yet the only way to become successful is by accepting failure as a means to grow.

In fact, according to the CDC, the suicide rate among the U.S. working-age population has increased by approximately 33% during the last 2 decades.

Practicing self-forgiveness releases the stress that comes with perfectionism.

Forgiving self is a profound act of owning who we are. It's about acknowledging our imperfections, understanding that mistakes are a part of the human experience, and choosing to release the weight of self-blame. By doing so, we open the door to positivity, resilience, and a stronger and more genuine connection with ourselves and one another.

The key to moving through our failures with self-forgiveness is simple and powerful:

1. Acknowledge your mistake. Own up to what happened, and face the consequences.
2. Take note of what caused the incident. This is important so you don’t do it again.
3. Learn the lesson and ask yourself, “What will I do differently in the future?”
4. Forgive yourself and move on. You cannot be your most valuable asset in the workplace or in life when you are holding onto the past.

There isn’t one AUTHENTIC leader in this world who doesn’t practice self-forgiveness.

There isn’t one close-knit team that doesn’t accept mistakes as a part of growth.?

So when mistakes happen, or things don’t go according to plan, treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a colleague facing similar challenges. Self-compassion involves recognizing your humanity and responding with empathy, fostering a positive mindset that encourages personal growth.

Mistakes are valuable lessons in disguise.?

Instead of dwelling on the past and mistakes we have made, focus on the lessons learned. What can you take away from the experience? Use these insights to fuel personal development, and then, with a lighter heart, allow yourself to let go and do better the next time.?

I want to share three simple, yet powerful, tips for learning to forgive yourself:

Create a Forgiveness Ritual: Develop a personal ritual that signifies your commitment to self-forgiveness. This could be writing a forgiveness letter to yourself, engaging in mindfulness practices, or simply setting aside quiet time for reflection.

Surround Yourself with Positivity: Cultivate a positive environment by surrounding yourself with supportive individuals who uplift and encourage you. Distance yourself from negativity and replace self-criticism with affirmations that promote personal leadership.

Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that perfection is an unattainable goal. Set realistic expectations for yourself and celebrate progress rather than dwelling on perceived shortcomings. Remember, it's okay not to be perfect – what matters most is the effort you put into personal growth.

Self-forgiveness has undoubtedly helped me to become the leader that I am today. And this practice will do the same for you.

Here’s to a week filled with self-compassion and personal growth.

Speaking of growth…

Join us on our 2024 Co-ed Make Bold Moves? Grand Canyon Retreat from June 9th-13th. Our last one of 2024. Message me and let's talk.

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• Make Bold Moves? in Mental Health/Mindset: Rise above the fray and soar to where anything is possible.
• Descend to Ascend: Navigating the Corporate Landscape with

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xo

Sara