In response to the question regarding self-pity/empathy

I saw an interesting question in my forum here with regards to the difference between self-pity and empathy towards oneself. It's a good question. For whatever reason I am unable to answer directly to the OP!

So for those that may be interested in my opinion on this....

Self-pity is about a 'poor me' mentality. There is no solution to it.

Where as empathy for self involves understanding why and helping to come up with solutions. Empathy = compassion.

Self-pity will leave you in that deep hole that you are in. Saying all that, it is very hard to have empathy/compassion and understanding for ourselves. Having compassion for others can teach us a lot in turning that understanding on ourselves...

Thank you for straightening that out.

I haven't scrolled further than this post, as I was initially scanning lower reply numbers.

I'd go further to say in addition that having self compassion and knowledge of oneself leads to deeper empathy for others in turn.
Self pity can be self defeating in its own way as it can limit ones ability to discover areas about oneself that is bendable, adjustable, self corrected, changed, adjusted. It can lead to giving others more power over oneself than deserved or justified. Can lead to hopelessness. An inability to shift life's direction. Dependent on the actions of others as opposed to independent and in control of ones own destiny. Can be fatalistic, in a way.

Certainly, thought provoking, Pegs