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Today, I washed my hair during a Zoom… and I don’t even have much hair.

But I really wanted it washed, and had been up working long before sunrise, and had meetings into the evening. So, I hit that “One tap mobile” link and half listened while I washed my hair.

The thing is, I facilitate trainings via Zoom and attendees like me get. on. my. nerves. Are they here or not? Are they asleep? The breakout rooms are going to be a disaster! 

But other thing is that today, I just needed a little extra self-compassion. Yes, I know that I would likely be the only black woman on the call. There would likely be people with whom I  have relationships who would have been really excited to see me there. I may have even had something helpful to contribute to the conversation. But, I sort of listened while I washed my hair and when the facilitator said, “Ok now we are going to go into breakout rooms. You will be in groups of 3 for nine minutes” I hung up and wrote this confession. (Or maybe it is better called a “celebration”.) Maybe I’ll go back on in a few. Maybe, I’ll file my nails. Maybe I’ll “One tap mobile” and do both but here’s my point: Compassion. Don’t just pass it on, hold on to some for yourself.

Showing 6 comments
  • Tammy Bahaj
    Reply

    I appreciate your transparency, God knows I have not mastered self care. I still struggle with putting everyone before me but I’ve been praying intentionally to exercise more self-compassion in the New Year!
    Thanks for always sharing Dr. Shannon

    • Shannon Mason
      Reply

      It is definitely an “ongoing work”. Lol. I have learned that “self-care” and “self-compassion” look different in different seasons, but when I ignore my heart my body tells on me. Let’s keep at it! We are worth it!

  • Carolyn
    Reply

    Thank you Dr Shannon for this timely reminder! Self-compassion goes a looong way, especially in this pandemic world!!
    This is a healthy habit to embrace — particularly as we move into a new year! Thank you again!!

    • Shannon Mason
      Reply

      ESPECIALLY in this pandemic indeed. I hope that we’ll take away from this pandemic ways to be more compassionate and intentional with ourselves and others.

  • Shaniqua McRae
    Reply

    I’m guilty of this “self-compassion”. And guess what, I didn’t feel guilty at all after indulging and slightly disconnecting. Great post!

    • Shannon Mason
      Reply

      I guess that’s my next step…not feeling guilty about it. Work in progress!

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