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2020 IS HISTORY, yet COVID-19 continues. As it persists, we are wise to persevere. As a verb, persevere means, "to continue in spite of challenge or delay achieving success." What can give us energy to carry on? Self-compassion and celebration. e reality is that things don't always go the way we want. Frustrations, losses, mistakes and limitations are just part of life and of being human. e more we accept these realities, rather than fight against them, the more we open ourselves to a compassionate response. Also, the more we celebrate the little things, the more big things there will be to celebrate. However, too often we extend compassion to others yet are our own harshest critics. Often, we celebrate external happenings yet think of our daily responsible choices as duties unworthy of even notice or thanks. e voice in our own head is often the loudest. It can drown out even an external encouraging chorus. erefore, there is great power in making time for self-compassion and internal celebration. Research says that people who practice self-compassion and internal celebration are less anxious and depressed, experience better sleep and are generally more satisfied, happier and successful. Sign me up! Who wants to join me? According to Dr. Kristen Neff, an associate professor at the University of Texas and a leading authority on the topic, self-compassion has three parts: SHANNON SAYS The power to persevere BY DR. SHANNON TERRELL GORDON PHOTO BY LEAH YETTER In my 30 years of clinical experience, step two initially seems flat out alien for many. News flash: You are worthy of caring and comfort – even as an adult, even if you are male. Please, oh please, choose to learn to comfort and care for yourself. You are so worth it! Beginning to practice self-compassion helps flip the script on self-criticism and invites an internal cheerleader. ink for a moment: When is the last time you said to yourself anything like, "I thank myself for not responding in kind when my partner spoke to me abruptly?" Or, "I thank myself for not reacting in anger when the children were all talking at once." Or, "I'm so proud of how I did on that project!" Try it. I think you might like it! Research proves that affirming thoughts encourage overall health as well as produce positive emotions and energy. Remember, developing new mental habits is just like practicing any other skill. Be kind and understanding toward yourself when a critical or dutiful thought pops up. Notice the thought as though it's on a movie screen. en, watch it float away as you choose a more grateful and encouraging one to take its place. Creating a kind, positive and understanding internal atmosphere – that's a key to our power to persevere in 2021! Dr. Shannon Terrell Gordon leads Macon's River Edge Behavioral Health and River Edge Foundation. Shannon is a researcher, author, speaker and teacher to help each person live his or her best life and to help leaders make the most meaningful impact possible. Follow her on Instagram with #drshannonsays. Contact her at sgordon@river-edge.org. The 3 Steps of Self-Compassion 1. I notice the challenge. 2. I respond to myself with warmth, caring and the desire to help relieve the distress. 3. I offer myself kindness and understanding when I make a mistake. Thoughts I Can Practice "This is really difficult right now." "This is challenging for me." "What's a healthy way I comfort and care for myself in this moment?" "Well, that didn't go so well! I'm human – like everybody else. What did I learn from this? Next time, I'll start from better experience." 30 maconmagazine.com | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021