Many, if not all, humans have a voice inside their heads known as the “inner critic.”
Although what this voice sounds like differs from person to person, it is common for this voice to keep you stuck in patterns of self-judgment. It also can block you from cultivating self-acceptance and making peace with yourself.
Calling the Inner Critic Out
It can be helpful to isolate the voice in your head that spouts self-judgment. Beginning to differentiate this voice from your own is how you begin to discover what your true self believes and says.
For instance, you could create a name for the inner critic, imagine what it sounds like, or consider if it has a shape. This can allow you to begin calling the inner critic out in moments when it is present and having a conversation with it as your rational, true, and positive self.
Cultivating Self-Compassion
Sometimes when you find yourself experiencing the voice of the inner critic, you may judge the inner critic for existing, since you do not want that self-judgment to be present. The truth is, self-judgment is a natural part of life; in some cases, it might be necessary to help you grow. Just because it makes sense for existing, does not mean it is always right.
Judging the inner critic often only keeps it active, because what you resist, persists. The inner critic exists to keep you safe from harm. This harm can include judgment from others, failure, or repeating bad decisions.
Perhaps instead of judging this voice further, you take notice of its presence and begin thanking this part of you for protecting you on occasion. This is how you can begin to let go of self-judgment and foster space for true self-compassion as you rewire your beliefs.
Rewriting Your Belief System
In the absence of self-talk rooted in self-judgment, you get to practice rewriting your internal narrative. Oftentimes, what you believe about yourself and the world are not even your beliefs. Rather, they are beliefs you have adopted subconsciously from your caregivers and society.
To begin rewriting what you believe about yourself, grab a journal and brainstorm what you would like to believe about yourself. You could also begin by simply reflecting on this prompt and continuing to rekindle a relationship with your true self as you put the inner critic in its proper place.
Whatever beliefs arise with which you feel in alignment you can begin implementing into your daily life to continue strengthening your confidence and belief in yourself.
Having an inner critic filling your mind and life experience with constant self-criticism can be exhausting, and it may feel like you do not know anything but that voice. At Avalon Malibu, we recognize how difficult it can be to move through recovery from addiction and mental health issues without cultivating self-compassion and self-acceptance. Because of this, we are here to help you make peace with your inner critic and support you in recovery. If you are ready to explore healing, call Avalon Malibu today at (844) 857-5992.
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