Embrace Your Inner Critic

Most of us carry an inner critic. At times it may feel like a mild irritation, but often it can be harsh and relentless- shouting messages of being unworthy, unlovable, not good enough, or not belonging. These voices shape not only how we feel about ourselves, but also how we relate to others and how we see our place in the world. They can limit our joy, drain our energy, and obscure our ability to recognize or pursue opportunities.

Through the lens of Nonviolent Communication, we come to understand that these judgments are not born within us—they originate from outside sources that then become internalized. Family expectations and history, cultural norms, religious teachings, media, education, or traumas we have experienced, all contribute to conditioning that distances us from what we truly want and who we truly are. We adapt to these external messages and internalize them, in order to feel safe, belong, or avoid conflict, often without realizing there is another way.

Choosing self-care and self-love can be a radical act. In Embracing Your Inner Critic, we will learn to meet the critic with curiosity—listening for its voice, exploring its origins, and uncovering the needs beneath its messages. With compassion and understanding, the critic can transform from an adversary into an ally, supporting rather than undermining our growth and desires.