Self-Criticism Is A Gift

What if self-criticism was a gift?

If you’re stepping into service or leadership, or anything that puts you in the line of fire for criticism, try meeting your inner critic with kindness. You might be surprised…hear me out!

When I first started guiding group breathwork sessions online during COVID, I was (for a long time) nervous, sweaty, and not at all confident. I judged myself hard and cringed listening back to the Zoom recordings. I’m not a natural speaker. Never was. I admire those who are.

My gift has always been in sensing and feeling. And loving 🥰.

Speaking clearly… that was the hard part. And I’ve come a long way.

Here’s how:

A couple years ago, something shifted. I started meeting my self-criticism with grace (gave him an inner wink/smile when he was there). I was able to then honour my perceived flaws. I laughed with them. I invited that part of me I used to see as negative, and saw how it had actually helped me. That voice encourages me to refine, to grow, to get better at what I do.

Now, that voice feels lighter. I wouldn’t be who I am without my inner critic. Now there’s less shame and more fuel. And looking back it’s like night and day in how I speak, guide, and facilitate.