Why do we criticize and judge ourselves? Where does this come from and how can we work with it?
I know for myself that I struggle with the inner critic who likes to make me feel that “less than” feeling. It starts almost the moment I wake up. I had to take a look at this “inner voice” and challenge why would I say this to myself?
First and foremost the question one should ask themselves is “would I talk to a friend like this?” I would bet that the answer would be no, so why do we do it to ourselves? I truly believe that we set such high expectations on ourselves, that no human being could meet. Also if we grew up with a lot of negativity and were constantly put down, then this could contribute to a low self worth.
I personally challenge my inner critic by looking in the mirror and saying the opposite by offsetting the negativity with positivity. I use a lot of “self talk” by saying that “I am loved, needed, and a beautiful person.” This technique seems to calm that inner critic. The following article talks about how to recognize your “inner voice.” I think this can be incredibly helpful.
Be kind to yourself and love who you are. This is a practice well worth learning.
With Loving Kindness,
-Debbie