Often it is easier to be kind to others, and cut them slack, than it is to do this for yourself. People tend to be harder on themselves than on others. In order to counteract the human inclination of being hard on yourself, you need to vow in your mind and heart to be good to yourself. For example, simply allow yourself the time to go for a walk with a friend or someone who gives you comfort. At this time you may choose to be only with people who bring you up and avoid those who make you feel uneasy about yourself and your breast cancer treatment.

This takes training and effort. For most people time is taken up by the many “shoulds” in life. They may include taking care of others, children, parents, spouses, friends, and partners along with everyday work and household responsibilities. Breast cancer treatment cannot be just added to an already busy life: Prioritize and give up some of your other responsibilities as part of your survival. Feelings of guilt often interfere with the concept of being kind to yourself. For now, you need to give up guilt and start caring about and being kind to yourself.