Freeing Ourselves from the Comparison Phenomenon
Date and time
A talk on the comparison phenomenon so many of us experience, organized collaboratively by Mindful[L] and MeWell as part of the CCL Week.
About this event
Description
Am I better, worse, or about the same as my peers? Why do we compare ourselves to others, and how does this affect our well-being?
This talk will explore the "comparison phenomenon" and our tendency to vacillate between inferiority (feeling unworthy and less than) and temporary superiority (being critical of others and better than). We will look at how both extremes can stem from the same source and prevent us from being truly "at home" with ourselves and connecting with one another. We will reflect on the theme of "noble humility" – the sense of being neither superior nor inferior to others, but in touch with our true selves and connecting to others in our shared human experience. The talk will introduce the practice of Mindful Self-Compassion and how it can help us overcome our tendencies toward self-criticism or perfectionism, become kinder to ourselves, connect more authentically with others, and live healthier and happier lives. We will look at the three elements of mindful self-compassion: *Self-kindness vs. Self-judgment, Common Humanity vs. Isolation and Mindfulness vs. Over-identification* and learn simple exercises to put these elements into practice in challenging everyday situations.
After the talk, there will be a Q&A session and an opportunity to share ideas and experiences or learn more about Mindful Self-Compassion and other helpful resources.
About the Speaker
Rita Girzone was born and raised in the USA. There she completed her studies in Human Development (BA) and Clinical Social Work (MA). Since 1991 she has lived and worked in Switzerland. In her early professional life, she worked primarily in the field of social work, e.g. in a group home for infants, toddlers and parents and, for six years, with women and children in the field of domestic violence. For over 20 years, she has been a part-time instructor in the fields of psychology, education and childcare, on subjects such as resilience and supporting emotional wellbeing in children, also at kibesuisse. She currently works as a counselor at Elternnotruf and in private practice and teaches courses in Mindful Self-Compassion.
