Silencing Your Inner Critic

Silencing Your Inner Critic

Are you afraid of trying new things? Do you stick to boring and safe endeavors because you don’t want to risk failing? Do you let opportunities pass you by? If so, you probably have an over-developed inner critic.

The inner critic is the little voice inside of us that constantly evaluates our performance and gives us feedback. Sometimes the information it provides is helpful. All too often, though, the inner critic is as mean as Simon Cowell in a snotty mood. “Why bother to try? You know you can’t do it.” “You’re stupid.” “You’ll never succeed.”

When criticism turns into soul assassination, as in the examples above, it’s time to put a gag on it.

In order to contain your inner critic, you must first become aware of its influence. Keep a journal for a week or two. Record any significant events that happened and what your thoughts were as you dealt with them. For instance, “Boss asked me to take on a new project—massive anxiety—I can’t do this!” “Sent in the mortgage check a day late—I’m so stupid about money.” Pay attention to any negative refrains that keep coming up. What are your inner critic’s favorite words of attack? Read more