by Charlotte Choi
Everyone has an inner critic—that voice inside our head that tells us we're not good enough, that we can't do something, or that we'll never be successful. While this inner critic can serve as a helpful reminder to be careful or to think things through, it can also hold us back and prevent us from reaching our full potential.
Whether you’re struggling with your inner voice because it is full of overwhelming negativity or your thoughts have gotten too loud to focus on anything else, there are some techniques that you can practice to overcome this battle with your inner critic, and we have a few suggestions on how to do that.
To squash your inner critic, the first step is to recognize when it's speaking. Pay attention to the negative thoughts and self-doubt that come up, and recognize them as the voice of your inner critic. This is the first step in taking control of your thoughts and building a more positive mindset. Once you recognize when your inner critic is speaking, the next step is to question the validity of its thoughts. Ask yourself: Is the thought really true? Is it based on evidence or is it just a negative assumption? By questioning the thoughts of your inner critic, you can start to weaken its power and take control of your own thoughts.
Another way to squash your inner critic is to reframe your negative thoughts in a more positive light. Instead of thinking "I'm not good enough," try thinking "I'm doing the best I can, and I'm constantly improving." By challenging these negative thoughts, you start to shift your mindset and can become more self-compassionate. When you're struggling with negative thoughts, try to remind yourself that everyone makes mistakes and has moments of self-doubt. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a friend.
Finally, don't try to squash your inner critic all at once. Instead, take small steps and focus on making progress every day. Remember that it's a journey, not a destination, and that it's okay to make mistakes and have setbacks along the way. By taking things one step at a time and focusing on self-compassion and positivity, you can start to squash your inner critic and build a more positive mindset.
This process will take time and effort, but with practice, you can start to turn down the volume on your inner critic and let your true potential shine. Don't be afraid to seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if you're struggling with negative self-talk. Remember, you are worthy and capable of achieving your goals, no matter what your inner critic may tell you.