This simple trick can positively distract your inner critic to help reduce your stress

I’ll give you one guess what your biggest challenge is. Yep, it’s you. We all have that inner critic inside of us, that voice that constantly is putting us down and telling us we are not good enough. The critical inner voice is formed out of painful early life experiences in which we witnessed or experienced hurtful attitudes toward us or those close to us. As we grow up, we unconsciously adopt and integrate this pattern of destructive thoughts toward ourselves and others.*

Rather than listening to negative self-talk, be proactive and start talking to yourself in a more constructive way. It’s as simple as tweaking the way you speak to yourself. Asking ourselves questions rather than issuing commands is a much more effective way to create change.

When you catch your inner critic flinging accusations, think, how can I turn this statement into a question? Asking questions encourages greater exploration and opens up more possibilities. Here are some examples: Am I willing to do what it takes? When have I done this before? What if [insert worst case scenario] happens? How can I…? This type of self-inquiry powers up problem-solving areas of the brain, helping you tap into your innate creativity. You’re able to greet negative thoughts with curiosity instead of fear, thus minimizing the unnecessary stress we put on ourselves.**

*Firestone, L. – 4 Ways to Overcome Your Inner Critic

**Wilding, M. – Forget Positive Thinking. This Is How To Actually Change Negative Thoughts