We all have that voice inside our heads—the one that whispers doubt, stops us in our tracks, and convinces us not to take risks. What if that voice—our inner critic—isn’t trying to sabotage us, but is simply overprotective? Its true intention may not be to hurt us but to shield us from falling, failing, standing out, taking risks, or making bold moves.
But what if we asked: What is the intention of that voice?
The noise from my own inner critic can be overwhelming, but I’ve started to rethink its presence in my life.
My critic wants to protect me from the very things I crave—things like personal growth, playfulness, boldness, and standing out.
So, instead of fighting it, I decided to write a love letter. I’m thanking it for trying to keep me safe but also reminding it that being bold, playful, and standing out are part of what makes me and you successful and unique.
It can stay, but it needs to know that compassion is part of the deal now. I’m working on extending grace to my inner critic and finding peace with its presence.
Dear Inner Critic,
Thank you for trying to keep me safe and small, so I wouldn’t get hurt.
I am grateful that you don’t want me to fail or fall. I have. I survived.
Thank you for keeping me humble and in my place. But I have found my place.
It’s okay that you’re here. I want to be grateful for what you were trying to do.
At the end of the day, it’s not about silencing the inner critic. It’s about flipping the script. Instead of shrinking in response, we can offer gratitude while still stepping into boldness. Bold moves and playful living don’t have to be at odds with the protective nature of that inner voice.
By practicing self-compassion and recognizing the intention behind the inner critic, we can transform the relationship into something that empowers, rather than hinders us from achieving personal and professional growth.
Press Play on Life
Let’s start today by asking: What would your love letter to your inner critic look like?
Brandi Heather, Playful Change Maker, Keynote Speaker, Best Selling Author
Ignite Joy, Stay Bold, Stick Together
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