There are occasions when life appears to be progressing extremely well. We are feeling comfortable, relaxed and self-assured, when along comes our Inner Critic or Self Saboteur. We all have one: an inner critic, a secretive messenger, an inner nitpicker. This inner voice can project harsh feelings and yield unpleasant thoughts. Each critique is planned with adept intent to derail us, unsettle us and generally unbalance us. Be prepared as this inner critic will repeatedly turn up when our lives are on track.

The inner critic, with its subtle and often not so subtle communication, employs cleverness and strategy to undermine our confidence and shake our optimism. If we agree and consent to its tactic, we may become filled with self-doubt, and at times appear unusually suspicious, judgmental and noticeably disagreeable. None of us are exempt from our Inner critic. In general, its appearance in our life is to habitually show up when things are going extremely well.

Our feelings and thoughts provide us with important and vital clues, therefore it is wise to frequently monitor and observe them. Feelings often emanate uninvited. Careful observation of feelings will allow us to determine our individual formations, patterns and recurring themes. Vigilant scrutiny helps us to decide exactly which state of mind is useful or healthy. Internal thought sabotage invariably chips away at our consciousness and makes us believe we are not good enough, not worthy or not OK. Nonetheless, irrespective of influence, with intention and practice we can dismantle damaging thoughts by witnessing and gently releasing them.

What if we were to consider the possibility that the Inner Critic has something to teach us? What if this persistent critic was eager to provide a message about something we need to know? Could it be possible to ratify this idea and thereby ease our anxiety and help our apprehension to dissipate? Uncomfortable thoughts and feelings are often present in our life in order that we may come to a greater awareness and experience a profound level of self-acceptance. A shift in thinking is often followed by a change in actuality.

Keep in mind that if feelings created our reality we would all be in trouble. Thoughts come and go and hold no power unless we consent to give them authority. If we can identify our emotional triggers, take accountability for self-sabotaging potential happiness and admit to willingly joining forces with the voice of Inner Critic, we are well on our way to enjoying a tranquil life. Our self-doubt, growing concerns and unintended fears will find it difficult to flourish and survive when contained within a positive frame of mind.

Inner critic is simply comprised of a range of emotions and thoughts, all of which we have the power to embrace or to shake off, to act upon or to not act upon. Adopting the words of Panache Desai (2014, Pg. 117), self-critical thoughts are simply the “phantoms of our own making”.
Even so, our Inner Critic requires us to generate a very strong preservation plan.
Below are some tips to get started.

Below are some tips to get started.

  • Listen for recurring patterns in your critical thinking.
  • Acknowledge the critic and reflect on its value. Does the thought come with evidence?
  • Notice your body language. Tightly clenched jaw, constant fidgeting, the drumming fingers, perpetual frowning or persistent headaches.
  • Replace your restless state with thoughtful action and serene mindfulness.
  • Recognize all the damaging and destructive words playing in your head.
  • Visualize these words floating away. Practice breathing deep down from your heart.
  • Be aware of your desire to reject compliments.
  • Accept compliments graciously even when you find this challenging.
  • Pay attention to whatever is making you feel anxious.
  • Tell yourself you are safe, you have skills and things will be OK.
  • Notice yourself becoming distracted, or disconnecting from people.
  • Observe stillness and practice showing up in people’s lives.
  • Become aware of how busyness restricts your ability to learn.
  • Begin to trust your inner wisdom and make time to tune in without fear.

Remember for Inner Critic to be successful it requires our participation. Working on the ways we self-sabotage is a lifelong process. Watch for recurring emotional themes and live with respectful awareness of the proclamations from your Inner Critic.

Speak to a Life Coach today and learn how to regain trust in your wisdom and capacity. If you listen through the lens of the heart you will determine the ability to feel secure and safe within yourself. Besides, isn’t it time to appreciate and enjoy your peaceful heart?

References.
Desai. Panache, (2014), Discovering Your Soul Signature. Hodder and Stoughton. London: UK.