The Compassionate Mind

Paul Gilbert is a psychologist who looks at how our minds evolved to spot danger quickly. That threat system can leave us anxious, self-critical, or hard on ourselves. This book explains why that happens, and how building compassion - towards yourself as well as other people - can calm those reactions and help you feel steadier. It mixes the science with practical exercises you can try.

Gilbert explains the ideas in plain language, without making compassion sound soft or vague. I found the parts on self-criticism useful, and the idea that kindness can sit alongside strength made sense.