Selffriendliness

Selffriendliness refers to the deliberate practice of treating oneself as one would treat a close friend: with kindness, patience, and supportive understanding, especially in moments of difficulty, failure, or uncertainty. It involves recognizing human fallibility, offering compassionate self-talk, and choosing actions that support well-being rather than harsh self-criticism.

While not a formal clinical term, selffriendliness overlaps with the concept of self-compassion, as defined in psychological research, which emphasizes self-kindness, common humanity, and mindful awareness. It contrasts with selfishness and with uncritical self-acceptance; it does not entail abandoning standards or neglecting accountability.

Practical approaches include noticing negative self-talk and reframing it, engaging in self-care activities that restore energy, setting healthy boundaries, and seeking social support. Techniques such as journaling, cognitive reframing, and scheduled rest can foster selffriendliness. It can be integrated into daily routines, such as responding to mistakes with a brief pause, then outlining constructive steps.

Potential benefits include reduced rumination, greater emotional resilience, improved motivation, and better relationships with others, though empirical study specific to "selffriendliness" as a term is limited. Critics note that excessive self-kindness without accountability could reduce effort; cultural differences may shape its expression and boundaries.