Critical inner voice is an internal enemy that can affect every aspect of our lives, including our self-esteem and confidence, our personal and intimate relationships, and our performance and accomplishments at school and work. The nagging “voices” that make up this internalized dialogue are at the root of much of our destructive and maladaptive behavior
What Are Some Examples of Common Critical Inner Voices?
Thoughts about yourself
- “You’re stupid,” “You’ll never be successful,” “No one appreciates how hard you work,” or “You are under too much pressure, you can’t handle this stress.”
- Many people experience voices about their relationship, such as “He doesn’t really care about you.”
How Can I Conquer My Critical Inner Voice?
In order to take power over this destructive thought process, you must first become conscious of what your inner voice is telling you.
- Identify the thought process and pinpoint the negative actions it is advocating.
- Then, consciously decide not to listen. Instead, you can the actions that are in your best interest.
Critical Inner Voice
Most of us are aware of those nagging thoughts and doubts that increase our nervousness and interfere with our performance
Where Do Critical Inner Voices Come From?
These inner voices usually come from early life experiences that are internalized and taken in as ways we think about ourselves.
- Often, many of these negative voices come from our parents or primary care takers, as children we pick up on the negative attitudes that parents not only have towards their children but also toward themselves.
How is the Critical Inner Voice Different Than a Conscience?
A conscience is trustworthy and moral guide like a conscience
- The critical inner voice is degrading and punishing
- It often leads us to make unhealthy decisions
- These negative voices tend to increase our feelings of self-hatred without motivating us to change undesirable qualities or act in a constructive manner
