Ever feel like you’re in a constant tug-of-war with your own mind?
The doubts, the self-criticism and the second-guessing – it can feel like there’s an opponent inside you. But there isn’t. That “opponent” is really your inner critic. Learning how to work with it instead of against it can change everything.
I know this feeling well. When I was recovering from depression, my biggest battle wasn’t the world around me. It was the voice inside me telling me I wasn’t doing enough, healing fast enough or strong enough to keep going.
Over time, I learned that self-awareness is not about attacking your flaws. It’s about understanding them, making room for them and letting them soften so you can grow.
🔸 Three Ways to Challenge Your Inner Critic 🔸
✅ Name It
When that inner critic shows up, call it what it is: a thought, not a fact. Label it out loud or in your head. Creating this space weakens its grip and makes it easier to respond with perspective instead of fear.
✅ Look for the Real Source
Ask yourself what’s underneath the criticism. Is it fear of failure, shame or an old belief that no longer serves you? Getting curious about the root turns self-attack into self-understanding.
✅ Work with a Guide
Therapy or mentoring can help you spot blind spots you can’t see on your own. A trusted professional or mentor can give you perspective, tools and support that accelerate self-awareness and change.
“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” — Aristotle
Your inner critic doesn’t have to be your enemy.
With practice,self-awareness turns from self-attack into self-trust.
And trust is what lets you move forward, even when fear and doubt are still whispering in the background.
Peter Zafirides, MD
Central Ohio Behavioral Medicine
(Image Credit: Go Limitless)
(For educational and informational purposes only. Not medical advice.)
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