How to Stop Being Your Own Worst Critic
Starla Sireno
Executive Coach & Strategic Advisor | Helping CEOs & C-Suite Leaders Build High-Performing Teams & Drive Lasting Organizational Impact | Named One of 2025 Top Coaches in America
My inner critic has been on a rampage lately. ??
The trigger this time was deciding to work from Buenos Aires for 2+ months. ?From the outside, it seemed like I had it figured out. ?But inside, I was questioning my choice and struggling with bouts of anxiety, doubts and shame.?
My inner critic rolled out her typical refrains, beliefs about who I am that I have carried with me since childhood.????
? ? ?You’re not disciplined.? You should stay in NYC and focus.?
? ? ?You’ve never been normal or like other people.? Why are you doing this??
? ? ?You are selfish. You shouldn’t tell people you’re doing this.??
You have an inner critic too.?? It is the but.? The should.? The insistent voice that you aren’t good enough.? The natural response would be to suppress, deny and ignore this part of us, but if we understand why it exists, we can take away its power over us.?
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Our inner critic believes its job is to keep us safe. ?Whether a move to South America or just a small experiment, any change threatens the status quo and brings uncertainty.? Your inner critic would rather that you continue with what is safe and predictable, even if it isn’t what you want.?
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Reflection + Experiment
Let’s talk about you and the ways you beat yourself up. ? Take a few minutes to reflect on the following: