Being Over‑Critical of Yourself – How to Quiet the Inner Critic
If you’ve ever stopped mid-sentence, second-guessed your creative idea, or sat on something amazing you made because it “wasn’t good enough”—this one’s for you.
I remember when I was deep in perfectionism. That other voice on my shoulder constantly corrected me. It got to the point where I couldn’t even finish my thoughts out loud without overthinking. It made creating stressful, and sharing nearly impossible.
Whether you’re juggling a 9–5, just left one, or dreaming of turning your passion into something bigger, the inner critic can hit hard. Especially when you’re just starting or unsure if your work is “good enough.”
Spoiler: It is.
1. That Voice? It’s Not You
Your inner critic isn’t the truth—it’s just a scared version of you trying to avoid judgment. And it tends to get loud when you’re stepping into something new (like sharing your art, starting that Etsy shop, or launching your YouTube channel).
Try this: Next time the voice tells you your work isn’t good enough, ask, “Good enough for who?”
2. Creativity Doesn’t Have to Pay to Be Worthy
Many of us carry this unspoken rule: “If it’s not making money, it doesn’t count.” That’s a lie. Making something—art, a mood board, a painted wall, a stitched pillow—is already valuable.
Don’t let capitalism steal your joy.
Your creativity doesn’t have to be validated by dollars. It’s already valid.
3. You Don’t Need to Be an Expert to Begin
Most creators feel impostor syndrome at first. Guess what? That means you’re stretching. Everyone starts somewhere. You don’t need a business plan or an Instagram aesthetic. You need to start sharing what you make—even the imperfect stuff.
4. Practice Saying: “This Is Enough For Now.”
Maybe it’s not your best painting or favorite project, but it’s where you are today, and that’s enough. Let your creative journey be real, raw, and evolving.
Progress doesn’t look like viral posts and sold-out drops. Sometimes it seems like finally clicking “post.”
5. Show Up Anyway
That voice in your head might never disappear, but you can learn to turn the volume down. The more you create, the quieter it gets. And eventually, the critic gives up because you’re too busy building something beautiful.
Final Thought: Your Creative Work Matters—Even If It’s “Not There Yet”
Every maker starts out feeling unsure. But the magic is in showing up. Your work doesn’t need to be perfect to inspire someone. It just needs to be real.
So share your sketch, post that DIY, and discuss your ideas. Let it be messy and honest. That’s the kind of creativity the world connects with.
Want help quieting your inner critic and turning your creative passion into income? Stick around—I’ve got resources and real talk coming your way.
Want to Dig Deeper?
Here are some incredible reads to help you quiet your inner critic, embrace your creativity, and start showing up fully:
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