Part 14: Overcoming Self-Criticism for Personal Growth
Discover strategies that help silence your inner critic, removing the weight of past expectations and self-criticism. Enhance your happiness and connections.
DISCOVER YOUR INNER COMPASS
Samantha I'Anson
7/17/20252 min read
Many of us carry the weight of past expectations, self-criticism, or societal judgments. This can manifest as a harsh inner critic that undermines your efforts to find happiness and connection. Learning to practice self-compassion is a revolutionary act that can transform your inner world and build up your overall confidence. Self-compassion, as defined by Dr. Kristin Neff, a leading researcher in the field, involves three core components: self-kindness (treating yourself with warmth and understanding), common humanity (recognizing that suffering and imperfection are part of the shared human experience), and mindfulness (being present with your pain without judgment) [2].
To begin rewriting your inner monologue:
This practice does take a bit of time – we’re undoing years of negativity here! But with consistent effort, you can definitely cultivate an inner voice that is supportive, loving, and empowering
Creating Your Joy List: A Simple Practice for Recognizing and Savouring Happiness
In the pursuit of grand happiness, we can often overlook the small, everyday moments that bring us joy. Creating a “joy list” is a simple, yet powerful practice that helps you recognize and savour these moments, and over time makes for a more consistently happy outlook. Your joy list is a personal inventory of everything, big or small, that brings a smile to your face, a sense of peace, or a spark of delight.
What is it for you? The first sip of coffee in the morning? (A winner for me!) The warmth of the sun on your skin? A particular song? The smell of rain? A quiet moment with a good book? The feeling of accomplishment after finishing a task?
Start by simply noticing these moments throughout your day and jotting them down. Once you have a list, make a conscious effort to actively incorporate more of these “joy triggers” into your daily life. The more you focus on and appreciate these small moments, the more your brain will be wired to seek them out, creating a cycle of happiness
References:
[2] Neff, K. (2011). Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself. William Morrow.
When you're ready... Part 15. Your Journey Starts Today: One Small Step You Can Take Right Now