Article by Carla Valencia

Everyone has an inner critic… you know, that tiny little voice that keeps saying things like, “you’re not good enough”, “you’re not smart enough”, or “you’re not pretty enough.”

If you listen to your inner critic, you can end up suffering from depression, low self esteem, and anxiety. That’s because we take our own thoughts and critiques much more seriously than things that other people say to us. If someone tells you that you’re not very smart, you will likely ignore them. But if those doubts are coming from your own mind, you are far more likely to believe them.

So, how do you keep your inner critic from getting the best of you?. If you want to silence your inner critic for once and for all, do these 3 things:

• Acknowledge your inner critic
Whenever that little voice pops up, realize that you’re criticizing yourself – and that all of those comments aren’t based in fact. For example, if you’re getting ready to take a test in your Advanced Biochemistry class, take a second to think about how irrational those comments from your inner critic are. After all, if you really weren’t very smart, you wouldn’t be taking Advanced Biochemistry, now would you?. When you consciously realize that your inner critic isn’t acting rationally, it becomes easier to ignore. Every time your inner critic rears its ugly head, take a second to acknowledge it. Then, make a conscious effort to ignore it.


• Ask your inner critic questions
What does it want?. Why does it keep popping up?. You may discover that your inner critic has a very specific purpose. Some inner critics are there to make you feel guilty; others are there to keep you focused. If you know what’s driving your inner critic, it’s easier to defend against its attacks.


• Analyze how your inner critic has hurt you in the past
Make a list of everything that your inner critic has done to interfere with your life. For example, if you never tried out for the cheerleading squad because you didn’t think you were pretty enough, write it down. Or, if you never went to Law School because your inner critic convinced you that you couldn’t handle the pressure, write it down. Once you have your list, accept what your inner critic has caused, and vow to never let it happen again. That way, you can move forward – without worrying that your inner critic is going to ruin other opportunities.

 

• Dealing With Difficult People. Take this class today!.

All best wishes ,

Carla Valencia
Building Self Esteem

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