Welcome back to our Shadow Work series. Today, we're diving into a voice that many of us hear constantly, yet rarely question: our inner critic. This voice is a powerful manifestation of our shadow, constantly reminding us of our perceived flaws, mistakes, and shortcomings. While it often feels like an intrinsic part of us, its origins are usually external, echoing messages we've internalized over a lifetime.
Our journal prompt for today is: "How does my inner critic speak to me? Whose voice does it sound like?" If you don’t already have a journal, here is a fun one.
Take a moment to tune into that voice. When you make a mistake, or even just think about doing something new, what does it say? Does it tell you that you're stupid, lazy, incapable, or unworthy? Does it replay past failures, reminding you that you'll never succeed? Notice the specific words, the tone, and the relentless negativity.
The "how" is crucial. Does it shame you? Does it catastrophize? Does it compare you to others? Does it use sarcasm or belittle your efforts? The way your inner critic speaks to you reveals its tactics and its power.
Now, for the deeper dive: Whose voice does it sound like? This is where shadow work becomes incredibly liberating. That critical voice in your head is rarely your own authentic inner wisdom. It's often an internalized echo of past authority figures or significant people in your life:
- A Parent or Guardian: Perhaps a parent who was overly critical, demanding, or had impossibly high expectations. Their words, tone, and judgment may have been absorbed and now replay in your mind.
- A Teacher or Mentor: A teacher who made you feel unintelligent or incapable could be the source of the "you're not smart enough" narrative.
- A Sibling or Peer: Bullying or constant comparison from a sibling or schoolmate can implant a voice that tells you you're not good enough or never measure up.
- Societal Messages: Sometimes the critic embodies broader cultural messages about success, body image, or worth that we've unconsciously taken on.
The inner critic's job, as understood by the shadow, is to keep you "safe." It believes that by pointing out every potential flaw and danger, it can prevent you from making mistakes, getting hurt, or experiencing rejection. However, its methods are destructive, leading to self-doubt, anxiety, and a feeling of being perpetually "not enough."
This exercise is not intended for you to cast blame on influential people in your life, but instead to notice where your stories and beliefs are coming from. Remember, those who were critical of you, were probably casting their own fears and beliefs of themselves onto you, in order to protect you (and themselves) from the things that they feared the most.
Shadow work helps us to differentiate from this voice. By identifying whose voice it sounds like, you begin to realize that this criticism is not your truth; it’s an old recording. It's a part of your shadow that needs to be acknowledged and gently re-parented. You can begin to see it as a misguided protector, rather than an accurate reflection of your worth.
This week, commit to observing your inner critic. When it speaks, pause. Acknowledge its presence, identify its source, and then consciously choose to respond from a place of self-compassion. This is how you reclaim your inner narrative and cultivate a kinder, more supportive inner voice.
If you want more tips and support, find me on TikTok, find me on TT:@ starseedsarah. Let's continue this journey to balance and purpose, and let our energy show what we choose to focus on – success, love & courage!
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