Letting Go of Self-Criticism

Self-criticism, while often viewed as a motivator for self-improvement, frequently acts as an invisible barrier to personal growth and emotional well-being.

- DR CHANDNI TUGNAIT

This internal dialogue of harsh judgment creates patterns of negative thinking that can significantly impact mental health, relationships, and overall life satisfaction. Understanding and addressing self-criticism becomes crucial for developing a healthier relationship with oneself, particularly in today's high-pressure environment, where personal and professional demands continuously increase.

Let's explore the essential dimensions of self-criticism that shape our internal experience.

• The root of self-critical behavior: Self-criticism typically develops as a protective mechanism, ironically designed to shield us from external criticism by beating others to the punch. These patterns often form during early life experiences, where high expectations, perfectionist tendencies, or perceived failures shape our self-evaluation methods. This internal critic becomes an automatic response to situations, creating a cycle of negative self-talk that can persist for years without intervention. Cultural and societal pressures often reinforce these patterns, making them seem normal or even necessary for success.