Meet Your Inner Critic: Why It’s Time to Turn Down the Volume on Self-Doubt

As leaders, we’re often told that confidence is the key to success. But what about when we’re facing that nagging, critical voice that tells us we’re not good enough, or that we’re somehow faking it and might be found out at any moment? That voice, often referred to as our "inner critic" or "saboteur," can be one of our biggest obstacles to growth. And yet, it’s also something that we can learn to manage and quieten.

I work with talented women leaders every day who wrestle with self-doubt and the feeling of impostor syndrome, despite their impressive achievements. Many of them find that their inner critic has a knack for showing up at the worst times – whether they’re preparing to speak in a big meeting, navigating a career shift, or tackling a high-stakes project. This inner voice isn’t there to help, but to keep us small and prevent us from stepping out of our comfort zones.

Here’s the truth: That voice, that inner critic, is only one part of you – and it doesn’t define who you are or what you’re capable of. Learning to recognise when your inner critic is speaking, understanding its patterns, and finding ways to turn down its volume can make a world of difference in how you show up and lead.

Three Ways to Tame Your Inner Critic:

1. Identify Your Triggers The inner critic often shows up in specific situations or around particular people. By identifying these triggers, you start to anticipate when that self-doubt might creep in. Are you doubting yourself when preparing to present to senior leaders? Or maybe it’s when you’re given a new responsibility and feel out of your depth. Recognising these triggers helps you start to create strategies for managing them.
2. Challenge the Narrative When your inner critic whispers (or shouts) thoughts like, “You’re not ready for this” or “Everyone else is more qualified,” it’s important to question it. Would you speak to a friend that way? Likely not. Practise responding to that critical voice with kinder, more encouraging words that you’d offer to someone you care about. Remind yourself of your achievements and strengths – they’re very real, and they’re part of the reason you’re where you are today.
3. Take Small, Bold Steps Self-doubt thrives in the face of inaction. Every small action you take in defiance of your inner critic is a victory. Start small, and gradually take steps that feel a little challenging but doable. Over time, you’ll begin to notice a shift in how you respond to your inner critic and the confidence you feel in tackling bigger challenges.

Managing the inner critic isn’t about eliminating self-doubt altogether – it’s about learning to move forward despite it. It’s about knowing that you can achieve remarkable things, even if you’re not perfect, and that real leadership doesn’t require flawlessness.

Ready to Step into Your Confidence?

For female leaders who want to silence their inner critic and show up as their most confident selves, I’m hosting a free 5-day challenge,?How to Lead with Confidence.?In this challenge, you’ll learn strategies for quieting that inner critic, connecting with a powerful community of like-minded women, and taking steps toward greater impact and leadership presence.

Join us for a week dedicated to helping you lead with confidence. Together, let’s redefine what’s possible when you let go of self-doubt and trust in your abilities.

Find out more here:

https://challenge.scoreapp.com/