The Inner Critic: How to Recognise It and Reclaim Your Power

There is a quiet voice inside many of us. It whispers doubts, second guesses our choices, and reminds us of every flaw and every mistake. This is the inner critic. Left unchecked, it can shape how we see ourselves, our worth, and what we believe we deserve.

But here is the truth: the inner critic is not your truth. It is often a survival voice, rooted in past experiences, trauma, or messages we absorbed growing up. Once we learn to recognise it, we can begin to take our power back.

What Does the Inner Critic Sound Like?

It is not always loud. Sometimes it is a subtle feeling of not being good enough. Other times, it is a loop of thoughts like:

• “Why bother? You will mess it up anyway.”

• “They are probably judging you.”

• “You do not deserve to feel proud.”

• “You should be doing more. You are behind.”

  
  

If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. We all have an inner critic, but its volume and tone can vary depending on what we have been through.

Where Does It Come From?

The inner critic often grows out of:

• Childhood criticism or perfectionism

• Emotional neglect

• Trauma, especially if we had to shrink ourselves to stay safe

• Societal pressure to constantly achieve or perform

It was once a form of protection. But now, it may be holding you back more than keeping you safe.

How to Reclaim Your Power

1. Name the Voice

Give your inner critic a name. Not to mock it, but to create distance. You might say, “There is that old fear voice again.”

2. Gently Question It

Ask yourself, “Is this true, or is this fear talking?” Most of the time, it is not truth. It is old programming.

3. Speak Back with Compassion

Instead of pushing the critic away with anger, respond with kindness. Try:

• “I am doing my best, and that is enough right now.”

• “This moment does not define me.”

• “It is okay to take up space.”

  
  

4. Write It Out

Journalling is a powerful way to spot patterns. Write down what the inner critic says, and then write your true self’s response beside it.

5. Reconnect with Your Real Voice

Your true voice is not harsh. It is not cruel. It is calm, honest, and deeply loving. Spend time getting to know it again through quiet moments, nature, creativity, or stillness.

You Are Not Broken

Having an inner critic does not mean you are flawed. It means you are human. The goal is not to eliminate it completely, but to stop letting it run the show.

You are allowed to feel proud of yourself. You are allowed to try, to rest, to fail, and to rise again. You are allowed to speak to yourself with the same gentleness you would give someone you love.

And that is how you begin to recognise the critic for what it is and reclaim your power.