You are probably familiar with your inner critic: that nagging inner voice that likes to nitpick at everything you do. We all have our own inner critic, but what to do when it becomes too intrusive? Here are some strategies you can use.
Stop Ruminating
“Rumination” is the technical term for those moments when our mind seems to insist on revisiting moments that have caused us shame or distress. Identifying and warding off rumination is important because this mental process has been linked to depression and anxiety. If you display what psychologists call “a ruminative response style” to setbacks, use these tips to stop the cycle in its tracks:
- Distract yourself. Sometimes engaging in your favorite hobby or doing household chores is enough to stop negative thoughts
- More than a simple distraction, exercise is a way of taking care of yourself that’s also very effective in taking your mind off the rumination cycle.
- Consider therapy. If your negative thoughts become overwhelming, consider seeking the assistance of a mental health professional.
Challenge Your Negative Thoughts
We tend to perceive our own thoughts as absolute truths, but nothing could be further from the truth. All your thoughts can be challenged, especially the negative ones. When you challenge your negative thoughts, you knock the wind out of your inner critic’s sails.
To challenge your negative thoughts, imagine how you would talk to a friend if they were in your same situation. If that’s not the tone and approach you’re using, then you are probably beating yourself up unnecessarily. In that case, shift perspectives and try to adopt a gentler, more understanding attitude—you deserve it.
More Business Tips and Ideas
From returning to the office after the pandemic to the right structure for your business, these are some previous posts you can check out for more ideas on how to lead with confidence:
- 3 Tips for returning to the office after the pandemic
- The one digital marketing hack every small business owner should know
- Choosing the right business structure: a quick guide
- How to be more result-oriented at work
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