The Inner Critic

The Inner Critic and Cognitive Distortions

The inner critic represents the internal voice that judges, criticizes, and undermines our sense of self-worth. From a cognitive therapy perspective, the inner critic can often lead to cognitive distortions - irrational and negative thought patterns that influence our perceptions and emotions.

The inner critic typically amplifies and distorts negative beliefs about oneself, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and inadequacy. It fuels self-doubt and perpetuates a cycle of negative self-talk that reinforces low self-esteem.

Recognize - Reason - Reframe

Therapy can help individuals challenge and reframe the inner critic's destructive messages by identifying cognitive distortions and replacing them with more rational and balanced thoughts. By recognizing when the inner critic is at play, individuals can begin to distance themselves from these harmful patterns of thinking and cultivate a more compassionate and realistic view of themselves.

Through cognitive therapy techniques such as cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, and self-compassion practices, individuals can learn to silence their inner critic, improve their self-perceptions, and foster a healthier and more positive relationship with themselves.

Follow up on a series where I will help you to

Recognize negative thought patterns

Reason their validity

Reframe your inner narrative.