Self-Compassion During Healing: Why Setbacks Are Part of Growth

Feeling stuck or like you're starting over again? Learn how self-compassion and curiosity are essential in healing and why setbacks are deeply human.

We put so much pressure on ourselves—to say the right thing, make the best decision, follow a perfect wellness routine, or hit every milestone in our healing journey. Whether it's therapy, journaling, or tracking progress, the focus often becomes: am I doing it right?

But healing isn’t linear.

You will slip into old patterns. You’ll doubt yourself. You’ll feel like you’re back at square one.

And that? That’s very human of you.

Part of emotional growth is understanding that change is bumpy. It’s built on pauses, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt. When we respond with self-compassion and curiosity instead of criticism, we create the space to actually move forward.

This is where real healing lives—in the messy middle.

So let’s stop waiting for perfection, and start honoring the process. You’re not behind. You’re not broken. You’re becoming.

Reflection and Journal Prompt:
What mantra do you return to when you feel like you're starting over?