"I was tired of listening to my harshest critic, the little voice in my head, so I became more KIND to myself." -Member of MyLupusTeam

You may judge yourself and others every day without realizing it. Like many members of MyLupusTeam have found, living with lupus is an exercise in frustrating moments. You may blame yourself when you look in the mirror, when you're having a flare, or when fatigue makes simple tasks difficult. The problem is when you let these internal judgments shape belief in yourself.

"I stopped everything and lay down because I could and needed to! Now, yes, I would prefer to make it to 10 pm but I will take the little victories too! I'm very grateful to care enough about myself to stop everything and rest. I'm getting better at self-care."

"You truly have to find what works for you so you have more good days. Being young with a family, you want to keep this disease from progressing so the most natural remedy is self-care. Rest when needed, eliminating stressors of every kind. Be encouraged. You can still have a very good and long life."

"I guess I've just gotta put one foot in front of the other. Do my best. I'm doing this, no matter what. I'm just trying to enjoy the process as much as possible. Please pray for my clarity, strength, and fortitude. I know I am capable. And I will practice good self-care throughout."

Experts in mindfulness and self-care recommend pausing a moment when you find you're judging yourself. Be aware of those judgments. Ask yourself where this is coming from. Use the moment to be gentle and compassionate with yourself.

Do you recall a time when you were particularly critical of yourself? What are you doing to show yourself kindness in those moments? Share in the comments below or directly on MyLupusTeam.