Last updated on February 20th, 2026 at 12:38 am
My Inner Critic’s Voice is Becoming the Most Dominant:
In this Newsletter, I would like to discuss the ever-present voice I refer to as my “inner critic”. It has grown increasingly loud, and it is time to rein it in and silence it. How do I intend to accomplish this?
- If you find yourself in a phase of facing your inner critic and seeking to manage it, I invite you to join me in this newsletter as we explore the who, why, when, and how of this journey.
Welcome to a Journey of Inner Peace and Creativity
Hello, dear Triumphant Friends!
Recently, I made a commitment to share this newsletter with you, as my status has shifted from “me” to “us” and “we.” I vowed to keep you informed because you play a vital role in this wonderful journey known as TriumphantMind.com.
So welcome to a space where we embrace both the quiet whispers and the boisterous shouts of our inner world. This newsletter invites you to join me on a transformative journey—one that seeks to quiet the ever-present voice of the inner critic. Whether you have battled with your inner critic for years or have just become aware of its presence, you are not alone. Together, we will explore the stories, strategies, and partnerships that can help us navigate this inner dialogue with grace and creativity.
In a world filled with high expectations and relentless comparisons, it is all too easy to let self-doubt and criticism take center stage. Yet, I believe that within each of us lies the capacity to transform these voices into catalysts for growth and creativity. This newsletter is a heartfelt invitation to delve into the nuances of our inner dialogue, to understand its origins, and to discover ways to foster a more supportive and empowering inner voice.
Join me as we embark on this exploration of self-discovery and creative liberation. Through personal anecdotes, collaborative insights, and practical tips, we will learn how to reassign our inner critic, allowing our true creative selves to shine. Let us walk this path together, embracing the power of “we” and “us” in our creative journeys.
One morning, I was met with the all-too-familiar voice of my inner critic when I noticed some extra pounds on my bedroom scale. It exclaimed: Oh no! You’ve strayed from the rules again! Thankfully, I quickly realized that a delightful vacation had led to this unwanted weight gain. (Let us not delve too deeply into that topic.) My indulgence in cheesecake and other delectable, albeit unnecessary, treats had created a situation that requires a little time and a commitment to a healthier lifestyle to overcome. This healthy lifestyle is simple to adopt again and requires no additional investigation.
Upon returning to my desk for the first time after my vacation, an overwhelming sense of joy washed over me. I was eager to dive back into writing, editing, creating graphics, and sharing something uplifting. However, that is when my inner critic made its second entrance. This time, it truly made a significant difference. The effect it had on my emotional state was unmistakable. It represents the “what” within our story.
If you have ever had your inner critic surface during almost every moment, especially the creative ones, then you likely understand how I felt.
Requesting Support for My Inner Critic
First and foremost, let us explore the dwelling of my inner critic—its spiritual sanctuary. It does not invade my personal life or intrude upon my writing endeavors anymore. Rather, it resides within my creative professional life, a fact that may resonate with anyone who has encountered an inner critic in their work.
My inner critic evaluates and analyzes my creative output, particularly regarding social media posts for the publication. This struggle is not a secret, as I have openly discussed this challenge on several occasions.
Numerous emails have flooded my inbox, presenting “solutions” that come with hefty price tags, which are simply unaffordable for me at this time. As the world continues to change and trust becomes increasingly difficult to find, determining whom to turn to for help can be quite challenging. Therefore, I reached out to my longtime friend Solomon Haven! He is the “who” in this narrative and the catalyst behind the shift from “I” to “we” and “us” within the publication.
For months, and even years, I tried to navigate my creative journey solo, experimenting with various methods of posting on social media. However, I have recently come to realize that I truly need someone else—someone I can trust—to accompany me on this path to joyful posting.
My best friend Solomon, who has now become my trusted right-hand man, is here to lead me through the world of social media while also providing moral support when my inner critic makes an appearance. I truly hope that he finds this journey to be emotionally fulfilling!
ALSO READ: IT’S OKAY TO WALK ALONE
How Did I Identify My Inner Critic so Easily?
Recognizing my inner critic may appear to be a simple matter, but the reality is more complex. This inner voice has accompanied me for many years, dating back to my childhood. As I transitioned into young adulthood, it became increasingly vocal, reflecting my growing self-awareness. Often, I found myself taking the blame for every mishap, a habit rooted in the mental and emotional conditioning I experienced during my formative years and into early adulthood.
Fortunately, I came to understand that none of the conditioning I experienced was truly about me or meant for me. While this insight did not completely eliminate my inner critic or my fear of harsh judgment and criticism, it did help me pinpoint the aspects of my life that could withstand that inner voice. I learned to recognize that certain areas of my life were entirely unworthy of such criticism.
If you have faced ongoing criticism, judgment, and unwarranted evaluations, you likely know what it feels like to be trapped in a seemingly endless battle for redemption. However, this does not have to be your reality. A shift in direction—one that assures us we will not lose control—might be exactly what we require. In this instance, forming a collaborative partnership with a close friend, even if it is not a formal or contractual arrangement, could be the key to moving forward.
The Collaborative Partnership That Diminishes the Inner Critic
In the realm of partnerships, ours is not defined by large, contractual conglomerates. Rather, it is simply two friends supporting one another during challenging times, like managing updates on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and more.
I enjoy creating images, adding captions, and crafting descriptions without any hesitation. This process allows me to unwind and unleash my creativity, providing a refreshing break from critical thinking.
Although writing for the publication is one of the most fulfilling experiences I have ever had, it also requires a degree of discipline. Graphics, in contrast, provide me with the freedom to express my creativity without restrictions. Not every graphic I create is shared online, and this is intentional. The graphics serve as a personal escape and give me a perfect reason to enjoy some classical music. While my writing time demands silence, my time spent on graphics can benefit from a musical backdrop.
My collaborative partnership with Solomon is truly special. (As a side note, if you have checked out the Sunday Soul Recipes page on TriumphantMind.com, you may know him affectionately as Sol.) In our dynamic, I take on the role of the graphic designer, while he provides the uplifting ‘music’ that complements my work.
I genuinely value this collaboration for the purpose of social media posts, and I am also thankful for it.
Recently, my trusted assistant volunteered to manage my diary. I must admit, I do not envy him in this role, as I often change my mind about various matters. I suppose my age has made me a bit particular, somewhat disorganized, and a touch forgetful.
The articles I write feel like my children; I strive not to show favoritism. Yet, there are moments when I hesitate to publish one piece simply because another seems to be “crying out” for attention first. This is where Solomon’s diary skills will prove invaluable. He will remind me of the reasons why a specific article should be published – or held back – at a particular time. He will help organize everything for me, and I am genuinely thrilled about this! The topic and discussion above elegantly address the “why” aspect of our conversation.
Becoming the “We” and “Us”
– Understanding When to Seek Help in Our Creative Journey
Let us explore the crucial question of timing in our conversations. When is it appropriate to seek the right support for our creative endeavors? How can we recognize this moment? More importantly, when do we acknowledge the undeniable truth that we require assistance from another individual?
I would also like to discuss the characteristics of the person we seek help from—or those we might feel comfortable approaching—as well as the level of commitment that feels safe at the beginning of this relationship.
The Essence of Timing
I have come to understand that timing is not merely about crises or the occasional chaos we may encounter. Instead, it revolves around recognition. It involves acknowledging where we experience limitations (not in a negative sense) and knowing when it is appropriate to reach out for another person’s support.
We do not reach out for assistance when everything falls into disarray; instead, we ask for help when the same thought echoes for the third or fourth time, providing no fresh insights. This occurs when the inner critic shifts from being constructive to merely… redundant. It is akin to a dinner guest who recounts the same tale, increasing their volume each time, yet fails to leave an impression.
The when came to me not through turmoil, but with a sense of calm acceptance and clarity. The transition from who to when felt organic and natural. It became apparent when I realized that my inner critic was no longer refining my work; instead, it was hindering my progress and holding me back. This inner voice even caused many sleepless nights.
My inner critic did not pose better questions; instead, it repeated the same ones, cloaked in panic, urgency, and a sense of defeat. This often leads us to a profound realization: it is not mere confusion that arises intermittently, nor is it solely the feeling of failure. Rather, it is the sense of familiarity—the becoming accustomed to what we must confront. It is the acceptance of challenges we cannot immediately surmount. This requires significant learning and transformation in our lives, whether it pertains to our ideas, creative processes, or even our work routines.
If you find yourself in that moment of realization, I encourage you to take a pause—not to change anything, but to simply acknowledge it. Sit with that feeling and thoughtfully contemplate your next steps.
Seeking support does not equate to giving up your independence. Instead, it signifies expanding your horizons, fostering the emergence of knowledge, creativity, and empowerment.
Choosing Who Feels Safe Enough
The ideal candidate is seldom the most outstanding one. More often than not, we find ourselves pleasantly surprised—just as I was—by the individuals we choose to join us on our creative journey.
They may not be the loudest expert, the most credentialed consultant, or the owner of the sleekest website. They are not necessarily skilled at “working the room” either. A million views on social media is not what defines them. The right person is simply someone who does not provoke your inner critic when they speak. That is all there is to it.
This is more significant than we often acknowledge.
A supportive collaborator is someone who does not push you hastily towards solutions. They do not view your uncertainties as weaknesses or shortcomings due to a lack of intelligence or insight. Instead, they listen attentively without turning their advice into judgment. They honor your pace, instincts, and boundaries. Anything they contribute to your creative process is invaluable and can often provide enlightening perspectives.
Above all, they do not overshadow your voice; rather, they assist you in discovering and reconnecting with it.
At the outset, the commitment should be minimal, involving a simple conversation, a collaborative task, or an exchange of ideas. Even a trial period would be appropriate. Trust is cultivated through experience and shared excitement, rather than empty promises of what might be. Here is why: The journey has already been quite demanding, and the last thing you need at this point is someone who requires constant guidance or oversight. It can be quite stressful to realize that your collaborator is only in it for their own gain, whatever that may be.
In summary, how do we determine who feels secure enough? This represents the “how” in our conversation. Here are three helpful methods you can consider:
- Observe Their Reactions: Pay attention to how they respond in conversations, especially when you express vulnerability or uncertainty. Do they listen with empathy and provide thoughtful, constructive feedback? Or do they dismiss your feelings and rush to give solutions? A safe creative partner respects your emotions and engages with your thoughts, fostering a sense of mutual respect and understanding.
- Assess Their Consistency: Trust is built over time through consistent actions. Notice if they follow through on their commitments and if their words align with their deeds. A reliable collaborator demonstrates integrity, which helps in creating a stable foundation for your creative projects.
- Evaluate the Energy Exchange: Reflect on how you feel after interacting with them. Do you leave conversations feeling inspired, understood, and supported? Or do you feel drained, criticized, or undervalued? A positive energy exchange is essential for a productive and nurturing partnership.
Choosing the right person to accompany you on your journey is not about finding perfection but rather finding someone who complements your creativity and respects your process. The right collaborator will not only help quiet your inner critic but also empower you to explore new creative horizons with confidence.
A Gentle Lesson for Quieting the Inner Critic: Insights Gained and Practices Adopted
(No Inner Strength Needed)
Here is what I have come to understand and now apply:
- You cannot conquer the inner critic; attempting to do so will only lead to your own defeat.
- Engaging in an argument with it is futile; raising your voice will only provoke a louder and more intense response.
- Overpowering it is not the solution.
Instead, you reassign it.
The inner critic sees itself as your protector, embodying caution and doubt at an intense level. When it is left unoccupied, it tends to panic. Instead of trying to silence this voice, consider assigning it a task that does not involve making judgments.
Therefore, when this voice arises, I do not question, “Is this true?” Instead, I inquire, “Is this useful right now?”
If the answer is no, I choose to delay the conversation—not indefinitely, just for now. At this moment, there is little benefit in engaging with anything that merely brings me down or diminishes my creative self-esteem.
I gently remind myself that creation precedes evaluation. While critique has its own significance, it does not belong at the forefront of my creative journey. Furthermore, nothing truly meaningful has ever emerged under pressure.
This is not self-discipline; rather, it is a constructive approach to self-management. It proves effective precisely because it does not require inner strength—just the ability to time things well.
Yes, a thoughtful approach is essential throughout the process; however, once you commit to what needs to be accomplished, everything tends to align perfectly.
An Invitation (Not an Obligation)
If your inner critic has been unusually vocal lately, I encourage you to make one small change this week:
Create something—anything—without seeking approval from your judgment first. No corrections. No optimizations. No justifications. Simply let your creation be.
You might discover, as I did, that the inner critic quiets not by confrontation, but when it understands it no longer holds control over the space.
If you choose to invite someone into your creative process, let it be a person who allows you to breathe deeply. It is essential to feel that a) you are not alone, and b) they contribute positively to your journey. Their role may be minor, but their impact should be monumental.
For instance – and as you probably already know – I once dreaded posting on social media, but it has since transformed into a source of joy.
My diary, once merely intriguing, has evolved into a stunning wellspring of inspiration and perfect harmony.
We were never intended to tackle every creative endeavor by ourselves. For some individuals, working independently is perfectly suitable. However, for others, including myself, certain tasks—like posting on social media—are best accomplished with the assistance and support of others.
We were never intended to navigate every trial, error, and challenge in isolation. However, we always have the power to choose how we are supported along the way.
Heartfelt Gratitude
I would like to extend a heartfelt and beautiful thank you to Solomon for being my companion and source of comfort as we navigate this creative journey together.
Additionally, to you, our amazing reader friend, we are truly grateful for your wonderful support.
A Final Reflection on Quieting My Inner Critic
As we conclude this exploration of quieting the inner critic, let us remember that each creative journey is unique and deeply personal. The persistent voice of our inner critic, though often overwhelming, can be transformed from a source of doubt into a catalyst for growth. This transformation does not require confrontation, but rather a gentle redirection. By acknowledging its presence and choosing when to engage with it, we create space for our true creative voice to flourish. Let this be a reminder that inner peace and creativity are not mutually exclusive; they coexist when we learn to listen with discernment. As you continue your own journey, consider how you might reassign your inner critic, allowing it to inspire rather than inhibit.
With warm wishes,
Diane Grace Wessels.
(And yes—my inner critic attempted to revise this conclusion. I appreciated its concern but decided to move forward regardless. Haha!)
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