Nachsicht mit sich selbst: Wie Selbstmitgefühl gegen überzogenen Perfektionismus hilft

The desire to lead a better life initially seems positive, but when it becomes a lifelong commitment, it can become detrimental. Constantly striving to become fitter, more focused and balanced can often lead to the opposite: physical and mental exhaustion. If one wishes to escape the obsession with self-improvement, they should also work on their own demands: "It's important to acknowledge that one doesn't always have to do everything perfectly," says Nathalie Claus, a Psychological Psychotherapist at the University of Bremen's Institute of Psychology.

Developing self-compassion, treating oneself like a good friend, is a helpful strategy for this. The key question is: How would one comfort a friend who tells them they didn't succeed 100 percent? "The words one would use should then be spoken to oneself as well," Claus explains. Additionally, one should consciously avoid depreciating oneself.

Whether the last workout was a failure, weight loss progress is not as desired, or meditation routine has been neglected, one should not think "I have failed." Instead, one should say "I have done what was possible for me in terms of what is achievable." Crucially important for a healthy relationship with oneself is learning to say no when it becomes too much. "There is no need for anyone to have a guilty conscience," Claus adds.