ABSTRACT
Chapter 5 introduces compassion as an important resource to cope with suffering. One theory defines compassion as the ability to be sensitive and engage with suffering and the courage to take action to alleviate or prevent suffering. We all come across suffering in one way or the other; it is part of life. It is therefore hard to flourish without a compassionate attitude towards others and oneself. Self-criticism can be a major obstacle for well-being and developing a compassionate mind can be a strong antidote for self-criticism. All humans also have three emotion systems: a threat system, a drive system, and a soothing or affiliation system. It is discussed that an adequate balance between these three systems is also important to create well-being and flourishing. Several exercises are introduced to develop kindness to oneself and that promote the development of the soothing system.
