Being your own best friend

1. Imagine that a close friend is having difficulties or suffering in some way. How would you respond to them? Write down what you would typically do and say, paying particular attention to the tone in which you usually talk to your friends. 

2. Think about times when you have had difficulties or are suffering in some way. How do you respond to yourself in these situations? Write down what you typically do and say, noting the tone in which you tend to talk to yourself. 

3. Can you notice a difference between the two approaches? If so, why? What makes you treat yourself so differently from how you treat others? 

4. Consider how things might change if you responded to yourself in the same way as you do to a close friend when you are suffering or experiencing difficulties in your life.