Mariska Hargitay, the beloved star of Law & Order: SVU, has recently opened up about her life lessons and the wisdom she wishes she could share with her 20-year-old self. During an intimate interview at the Town & Country Philanthropy Summit on October 29, she reflected on her journey as she approaches her milestone 60th birthday. Let’s delve into the insights she shared and explore her journey toward self-compassion and vulnerability.
The Power of Self-Compassion
A Journey of Self-Discovery
In her conversation with PEOPLE, Hargitay emphasized a crucial piece of advice she would give to her younger self: “I wish I had more compassion for all of the parts of myself.” This profound statement reveals her understanding of self-acceptance and the importance of recognizing one’s unique qualities. Hargitay candidly admits that she spent too much time comparing herself to others, wishing for what they had rather than appreciating her own attributes.
Learning to Appreciate Yourself
She reflects on how easy it is to fall into the trap of comparison, especially in today’s world, where social media often magnifies our insecurities. “I wasted too much time going, ‘They have this. I wish I had that,’” she explains. Hargitay’s advice is simple yet powerful: rather than envying others, we should strive to recognize and cultivate our own strengths.
By integrating the qualities we admire in others while valuing our unique traits, we can create a more fulfilling and authentic self. “Don’t throw yourself away,” she urges, highlighting the importance of self-worth and the value each person brings to the table.
Vulnerability as a Superpower
Embracing Authenticity
Mariska Hargitay has long been an advocate for vulnerability, describing it as her “superpower.” In her view, embracing vulnerability not only fosters genuine connections but also allows for a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. “Getting personal levels the playing field,” she shares, emphasizing that sharing our true selves can help dissolve barriers and foster empathy.
Connecting Through Vulnerability
Hargitay believes that being open about our struggles can save time and create a sense of camaraderie. She seeks to know people in their entirety, appreciating their “great parts” alongside their “scared parts.” By doing so, she encourages others to drop their facades and connect on a more human level.
This approach has transformed her relationships, allowing her to see the complexities in others. When confronted with someone who may initially come off as “a little tough or a little rude,” she practices patience and curiosity. “Everyone wants to feel seen,” she points out, and often, those who are harsh are simply hiding their fears.
Breaking Down Barriers
Understanding Fear and Connection
Hargitay’s insights extend beyond personal reflections; they touch on the fundamental nature of human interactions. She believes that many conflicts stem from fear—fear of vulnerability, fear of judgment, and fear of misunderstanding. By addressing these fears head-on, we can dismantle the walls that separate us.
The Magic of Shared Humanity
As Hargitay explains, once the conversation begins and barriers are broken down, a sense of shared humanity emerges. “Oh my god, me too,” she describes the moment when individuals recognize their similarities. This revelation can shift the dynamics of any interaction, fostering understanding and connection.
By highlighting our commonalities, Hargitay believes we can dispel illusions of separation. “In a lot of ways, the fear is an illusion,” she says, encouraging us to look beyond our differences. Her philosophy is simple yet profound: recognizing our shared humanity can transform our relationships, allowing everyone to relax and embrace the moment.
Conclusion
Mariska Hargitay’s reflections on compassion, vulnerability, and human connection resonate deeply in today’s fast-paced world. As she approaches a new chapter in her life, her advice to embrace self-love and authenticity serves as a reminder to us all. By nurturing compassion for ourselves and others, we can build meaningful connections that enrich our lives.
FAQs
What advice did Mariska Hargitay give her younger self?
Mariska Hargitay advised her younger self to have more compassion for all parts of herself, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and recognizing one’s unique strengths rather than comparing oneself to others.
