I turn a deaf ear to self-criticism. Such disparagement can paralyze me on the road to self-improvement. Instead of stopping progress, I stop critical thoughts lurking in my mind.
I unmask self-criticism when it comes disguised as self-reflection or self-improvement. The difference between the voice of self-criticism and self-improvement is that self-criticism focuses on what I have done wrong, self-improvement looks to the future.
Through positive reflection, I focus on my strengths to create a better me. I refrain from punishing myself or fixating about what I have done wrong in the past. I strive to nurture my strong points and improve the other areas.
The voice of self-criticism attempts to fill me with shame by reminding me of my mistakes. I stand up to that voice by focusing on my positive interactions and successes, instead of playing shameful thoughts over and again.
I surrender the areas of my life that need improvement to my Creator. I give up trying to be perfect or trying to be like someone else and purely embrace who I was created to be.
I exhibit grace and mercy toward myself, forgiving for my shortcomings and accepting myself the way I am. I acknowledge that I am a work in progress and I continue on my quest to be a better person. I am strengthened by staying positive about the future.
Today, I shut down self-criticism and focus on positive thoughts. I trade negative criticism for positive reflection in order to fly above and beyond my dreams.
Self-Reflection Questions:
1. Do I recognize the difference between self-criticism and self-improvement?
2. What are my three greatest strengths?
3. What can I do to silence the voice of self-criticism when it creeps into my thoughts?
