Turning Self-Doubt Into Strength
We all have an inner critic—that voice in our head that points out mistakes, amplifies fears, and keeps us playing small. It often feels like the enemy, but what if that voice isn’t here to harm you? What if it’s trying, in its own misguided way, to protect you?
The inner critic’s job is often rooted in keeping you safe—safe from failure, rejection, or even the unknown. The problem is that it tends to overdo it, holding you back when you’re ready to grow. But instead of silencing or fighting it, try this: befriend it.
Here are some steps to shift your relationship with your inner critic:
- Acknowledge it. Rather than ignoring the voice, notice when it shows up. Gently name it: Oh, there’s my critic trying to keep me safe.
- Get curious. Ask it questions: What are you afraid of? What are you trying to protect me from? Often, it’s rooted in fear or outdated beliefs.
- Reframe its role. Instead of seeing your critic as the enemy, think of it as a protector that needs guidance. You might say, Thank you for looking out for me, but I’ve got this.
- Offer yourself kindness. When your critic is loud, counter it with compassion. Remind yourself, I am capable, even if I stumble along the way.
Befriending your inner critic doesn’t mean you’ll never feel self-doubt again. But it does mean you’ll have a new way of responding—with understanding rather than resistance. Over time, that inner critic can transform from a harsh voice into a quiet ally, helping you move forward with more confidence and ease.
Because the truth is, the critic isn’t here to stop you—it’s here to remind you how much courage it takes to grow.
