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Tame Your Inner Critic
Episode 427th January 2025 • UnCeiling You by Dr. Natalie Luke • Natalie Luke, PhD
00:00:00 00:30:25

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What You'll Learn:

  • What is the Inner Critic?
  • Learn why the inner critic exists and how it influences your thoughts and actions.
  • Why Naming Your Inner Critic Helps:
  • Discover how labeling this voice separates it from your true self and makes it easier to challenge.
  • Recognizing Patterns:
  • Understand when and why your inner critic gets loudest and how to identify common triggers.
  • Mindfulness as a Tool:
  • Natalie explains how to slow down, observe your thoughts, and respond instead of reacting.
  • Practical Strategies:
  • How to challenge distorted thought patterns like catastrophizing and “should” statements.
  • Techniques to replace negative self-talk with empowering reframes.
  • Visualizing your “future self” to redirect energy and focus on success.
  • Real-Life Examples:
  • Hear stories from the tennis court to the workplace that illustrate how to recognize and quiet the inner critic in action.

Key Moments

  • [00:01] Introduction and why this episode is a must-listen.
  • [01:00] How I met my inner critic, Natasha, on the tennis court.
  • [01:58] Natalie Grimes explains why naming your inner critic is powerful.
  • [07:45] Translating lessons from the court to the workplace: Managing complex projects while silencing self-doubt.
  • [12:50] The inner critic’s favorite tactics: Catastrophizing, jumping to conclusions, and “should” statements.
  • [17:10] Emotions tied to the inner critic and how to separate them from your identity.
  • [20:23] Building space between your thoughts and feelings: The key to taking back control.
  • [23:53] Advice for beginners: How to recognize your inner critic and start your journey toward self-empowerment.

Notable Quotes

  • “Naming your inner critic helps you take control over negative thoughts.” – Natalie Grimes
  • “Shame says, ‘I’m flawed.’ Guilt says, ‘I made a mistake.’ Knowing the difference is key.” – Natalie Grimes
  • “What would your future self feel, not think? Visualizing this can shift your mindset in the moment.” – Natalie Luke, PhD
  • “New level, new devil. As you grow, your inner critic evolves—but so can your tools to manage it.” – Natalie Grimes

Resources Mentioned

  • Mindfulness Techniques: Learn how mindfulness can help you observe your thoughts without judgment.
  • Journaling Prompts: Start documenting when and why your inner critic shows up.
  • Therapy Resources:
  • Call the number on the back of your insurance card for mental health resources.
  • Dial 2-1-1 for referrals to local therapists and support groups.
  • Visualization Practices: Create a mental image of your "future self" to redirect focus and energy.

Take Action

  1. Name Your Inner Critic: Start by giving your inner critic a name to separate it from your identity.
  2. Practice Mindfulness: Observe when and why the inner critic appears and choose how to respond.
  3. Challenge Negative Thought Patterns: Use reframes like, “I’m learning” or “I don’t have to be perfect right now.”
  4. Find Support: Consider therapy or talking to a trusted mentor to explore deeper insights.

Connect with Us

  • Follow UnCeiling You on social media for updates and more empowering content: https://unceilingyou.com/
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalielukephdbcmas/
  • Join the UnCeiling Zone: https://unceilingzone.com/
  • Listen to more episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/2lCQ5OC6kXFCXlHR1o2hkR?si=8336fa24df5b4c08

We’d Love to Hear From You!

What’s the name of your inner critic? How do you manage its voice? Drop us a comment or send us a message—we may feature your story in a future episode!

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