How to Quieten the Inner Critic

sophiegw

1 year ago

I recently wrote a post around the topic of Imposter Syndrome – something I struggle with daily, and it comes down to the fact that I am my biggest critic when it comes to anything in life. I’m a big believer that acknowledging a flaw is the first step in tackling it, so in noticing this about myself it got me thinking; How do I quieten that inner critic? In the bustling and demanding world we live in today, it’s all too easy to fall prey to our inner critic. That nagging voice inside our heads that questions our abilities berates our decisions and undermines our self-worth. It has us doubting everything about ourselves. We often face unique societal pressures that can amplify this inner critic, making it crucial to learn how to silence its destructive chatter if we ever want true happiness. In this blog post, I will explore some effective strategies I’ve adopted to try to quieten the inner critic and cultivate a mindset of self-compassion and empowerment that you can try too.

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Call It What It Is!

As I mentioned above, in my honest opinion, the very first step in quietening the inner critic is to become aware of its presence. Take a moment to reflect on any negative self-talk and self-doubt that arises in different situations and call it out. Once you are aware of it, you can begin to notice the patterns and triggers that fuel your inner critic’s voice. By acknowledging its existence and calling it exactly what it is, you gain the power to challenge its influence over your thoughts and actions.

Start Challenging It

Once you’ve identified that inner critic’s presence, it’s time to challenge its negative self-talk head-on. Start by questioning the validity of the critical thoughts. Are they based on cold hard facts or mere assumptions? Start replacing self-deprecating statements with more positive and realistic evidence-based ones. Practising positive affirmations that reinforce your strengths, achievements, and potential really helps to divert that critical voice back to reality. Remember, you are worthy of self-love and acceptance, and if you lack this, that inner critic will have more power over you.

Self-Compassion Is Your Friend

Self-compassion is a vital tool for quietening the inner critic. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to a loved one facing a similar situation. This is trickier than it sounds because often, we are the types of people that only ever put ourselves last. Instead of beating yourself up over mistakes or perceived flaws, embrace self-forgiveness and empathy – you deserve that. Acknowledge that everyone makes errors and that learning and growth stem from these experiences. Practice self-care activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit, promoting a sense of well-being and self-compassion. If you slip back into old habits, don’t punish or berate yourself; notice the thoughts acknowledge them, and release them. When you can reach for a better energy thought and move forward. This is a difficult process, and often we struggle to unlearn what we have been so used to for the majority of our lives. Kindness is key, and self-compassion is your friend.

You Are Who You Hang Out With

I tell m children daily that who they hang out with is a reflection of who they are as people. The truth is the same for adults. Creating a supportive network of people who uplift and encourage you is essential. Mood hoovers and negative cynics will only strengthen that inner critic and make it louder. Look to seek out individuals who genuinely celebrate your successes and provide constructive feedback. The kind of people that make you feel good and light you up. Surrounding yourself with positive influences helps drown out the negative noise of the inner critic. It reaffirms what you know to be true, but what that inner critic would have you disbelieve. Engage where possible in empowering communities or support groups where you can share experiences, learn from others, and gain perspective. Remember, you are not alone in facing the challenges posed by the inner critic, and far more people are battling this themselves each do, so make sure you are an inspiring and empowering individual to be around too.

It Has To Come From Self-Empowerment

To truly quieten the inner critic, it’s crucial to cultivate self-empowerment. Set realistic goals and work towards them, acknowledging your progress along the way. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and reward yourself for your efforts. Take ownership of your decisions and embrace the power of choice. Surround yourself with inspiring role models who exemplify resilience and self-belief. Engage in activities that fuel your passions and boost your confidence. Stay in tune with your own mind and body reminding yourself you are only human – but so is everyone else. You have to become your own cheerleader.

In Conclusion

Quieting the inner critic is an ongoing process that requires patience, self-awareness, and dedication. This isn’t an overnight fix, but we have the strength to challenge societal expectations and redefine our self-worth. We need to strive to become our own allies, celebrating our unique qualities and embracing the journey towards self-acceptance and personal growth.