Your inner critic isn’t the “truth” – it’s usually an old protective mechanism designed to keep you safe from rejection. To heal it, we don’t fight it; we listen to it with compassion.

Steps to silence the critic:

1. Name It: Give your critic a name (e.g., “Critical Cathy” or “The Judge”). This creates distance between you and the thought.
2. Ask the Purpose: Ask your critic, “What are you trying to protect me from?” Often, it’s a fear of being seen or failing.
3. The Re-Parenting Response: Respond to the critic like a loving parent: “I hear that you’re scared I’ll fail, but I am safe and capable.”