This leads to engaging in behaviors that keep us from putting ourselves out there , playing small , or filling up our day with tasks to avoid getting to the truly important things that move us forward toward our dreams . We may disengage because we ’ re “ too busy ”, “ too tired ”, “ too overwhelmed ”, or “ it ’ s too hard ”.

“ What if they don ’ t accept me ?” “ What if I fail or get rejected ?” “ What if it doesn ’ t work ?” “ What if I lose / leave my job or money stops coming in ?” Not reaching out to avoid hurt or rejection or staying in a familiar but lessthan-ideal situation because it seems easier than the dream or desire .

We often focus on our fears of the unknown and worst-case scenarios instead of expecting the best to happen in any given situation . It may be difficult releasing guilt from past events or forgiving ourselves or others . We may fear speaking up . We expect that failures in our past dictate our future or may get caught up in a fear of what the future may bring .

We feel ourselves getting defensive when someone offers a suggestion or advice . We close down or don ’ t want to hear other ideas or opinions . We anger easily or blame others for things not going our way .

These six journal prompts will help you recognize when your inner critic is center stage .

1 . When did this belief begin ? Do I remember this from childhood or from others in my life speaking it ? [ If “ yes ” then the inner critic may be in control .]

2 . Does this thought or belief I have ring true for me now ? [ If not , then it ’ s time to consciously choose a different thought .]

3 . How does this thought , or belief make me feel when I say it out loud ?

4 . Would I lovingly repeat this thought or belief to a small child ?

5 . Is this thought or belief keeping me comfortably stuck or inhibiting me from trying something new ?

6 . Is this thought or belief inspiring to me ? Does it bring me joy ?

After your journaling exercise , which gives you a deeper understanding of how the inner critic shows up for you , it ’ s time to shift the energies and quiet down the chatter