Shownotes
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
- Name Your Inner Critic: Start by giving your inner critic a name to separate it from your identity.
- Practice Mindfulness: Observe when and why the inner critic appears and choose how to respond.
- Challenge Negative Thought Patterns: Use reframes like, “I’m learning” or “I don’t have to be perfect right now.”
- 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!