Inner-critics stomp around smashing hope and shattering confidence.
The goal of your inner-critic is safety.
The top 7 expressions of inner-critics:
- You should have. Inner-critics love the negative past.
- You screwed up.
- They don’t like you.
- You can’t do that.
- You’re a loser.
- You’re stupid.
- You can’t change it.
5 ways to beat inner-critics into submission:
#1. Attainable goals shame inner-critics.
Your inner-critic shouts, “Go for it,” when you set unreasonable goals.
- What’s the bravest thing you can do today? Fear is a favorite tool of inner-critics.
- How will you take responsibility for success? Your inner-critic shrivels when you own something.
#2. Isolation strengthens inner-critics.
Your inner-critic claps and laughs when you build walls and silos.
- Who will fight the battle with you? Lock arms with someone who shares your values and embraces similar goals.
- Whose team can you join? If you aren’t sure what you want, help someone who is sure.
#3. Feedback chokes inner-critics.
Seeking feedback is the beginning of ownership.
First, describe a win. “I’m working to earn a promotion.”
Second, ask two questions:
- What am I doing that helps me win?
- What am I doing that hinders me from winning?
#4. Progress defeats inner-critics.
The goal of your inner critic is self-defeat.
- What’s the biggest step forward you can complete today? Don’t worry that it’s small. Complete it. Inner-critics loathe progress.
- What small behavior-changes help you get what you want for yourself and others?
#5. Aspiration humbles inner-critics.
Your inner-critic creates avoidance by reminding you of painful screw ups.
- What will you do next time? Your inner-critic throws a tantrum when you turn to the future.
- What do you want for yourself? Your inner-critic concentrates on “don’t want” and “don’t like”.
- What do you want for others? Your inner-critic wants you to forget others and collapse inward.
What are some favorite strategies of inner-critics?
How might leaders beat their inner-critic into submission?
