Accept yourself Quote by William Ury
““Self-judgment may be the greatest barrier to self-understanding. If we want to understand other human beings, there is no better way than to listen to them with empathy like a close friend would. If you wish to understand yourself, the same rule applies: listen with empathy. Instead of talking negatively to yourself, try to listen to yourself with respect and positive attention. Instead of judging yourself, accept yourself just as you are.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Getting to Yes by William Ury, 1981
Self‑judgment blocks self‑knowledge; empathy toward oneself mirrors empathy toward others, fostering acceptance and growth.
In simple terms: Judging yourself stops understanding; listen with respect.
Practice self‑empathy before self‑criticism.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- personal journaling
- coaching
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you reframe inner criticism?
- What habits help you listen to yourself?
Self‑empathy can be hard when ingrained negative self‑talk persists.