Healing Self

People struggling with behaviors of concern often feel shame, self - blame and guilt. They may judge themselves harshly and punish themselves for their behavior. This often happens when people stop their behavior and start thinking back.

Often, this leads to engaging with more problem behaviors because doing so makes them feel better, if only temporarily.

It can become a vicious cycle.

SMART facilitators encourage self-acceptance by helping participants understand that it’s okay to be accepting of themselves.

Practicing Self-Respect Worksheet Individual Tool

Accepting yourself
Accepting yourself is the first part of practicing self-respect. Once you learn to respect yourself, you will be able to show more respect for others and the things that matter most to you such as culture, connection Country and community.

Accept yourself for who you are. We all have flaws, weaknesses, strengths and talents. Instead of putting yourself down, think of yourself with kindness and compassion.

When you practice self-respect, you let go of all the things you don’t like about yourself or you feel guilt or shame about. It is normal to feel some guilt or blame for past behaviors, but don’t be overwhelmed by these feelings.

Punishing yourself only leads to negative feelings
Punishing yourself won’t inspire or motivate you to change and can actually encourage the problem behavior. This can result in you getting trapped in a cycle of punishing yourself. Think about what you are grateful for - it could be your connection to family and community, or your pride in Country and culture. Instead of punishing yourself, focus on all the beautiful and deadly things about you and how you can become a role model for younger people in the community.

Respecting yourself just means making peace with yourself. This is often the first step in your healing journey and makes change possible. Remember you are connected to culture, to your old people and to the next generations. You have an important place in your family and community.

Be proud of who you are.

Think of a time when you have acted according to the 4Cs ( Country, Culture, Community, Connection) and felt good about what you did. Why did it feel good?

Thinking about yourself and Country, Culture, Community and Connection - what is one thing you could do your way to these values in the next 7 days?