Loud Inner Critic? Turn Down the Volume

We all have that voice in our heads—the one that questions our abilities, stirs up fear, and makes us second-guess ourselves. It pops up before big meetings, in quiet moments of doubt, or when we’re on the brink of something bold.

I call mine Kathy. 😈

Kathy is relentless. She shows up uninvited, usually when I’m stretching outside my comfort zone. And I’ve learned I’m not the only one with a “Kathy.” The more leaders I coach and collaborate with, the more I see it: even the most accomplished among us wrestle often with an inner critic. 

The tricky part? Sometimes that voice blends in so well, we don’t even realize our noisy self-limiting beliefs are inhibiting our growth. 

The good news is that you have the power to turn down the volume. Journaling, mindfulness meditation, and coaching are useful techniques that can help you acknowledge that nagging voice, call it out, reframe your negative thoughts, and talk to yourself like you would a friend.

After all, the story you tell yourself matters. So, what do you need to tell your inner Kathy? If you could use some support in telling her to shut it, I’m here to help.

Real Talk

Ever feel like your calendar has more control over your career than you do?  “I’ve never had this kind of space to focus on me” is one of the most common things I hear from first-time coaching clients. But when you don’t carve out time to reflect on your professional goals, you risk putting your growth and career advancement on autopilot. In this 45-second clip, I explain why intentional space for reflection isn’t optional—it’s essential. 

In the Spotlight

Performance Review Power Prep

Speaking of taking charge of your career, mid-year performance review season is almost here! Ready to lead with intention and advocate for yourself? In one focused hour, we can highlight your achievements, articulate your value, and prepare you to shine in this important conversation. Need help delivering feedback? We can tackle that, too. Book yours today! 

Brain Food

Let’s be real. A lot of folks are having a hard time right now. How we show up for each other matters. As Brené Brown reminds us, “Rarely, if ever, does an empathic response begin with ‘at least.’” If someone in your life is struggling, check out this three-minute short. She beautifully explains the difference between sympathy and empathy, and why feeling with someone makes all the difference.

Need a Speaker?

I’m booking speaking engagements and workshops for this fall and into next year. If you’re planning ahead and think my voice or perspective could add value to your team or energy to your event, I’d love to connect!

Whose Opinion Matters to You? 

While you're practicing turning down the volume on your inner critic, I invite you to consider whose opinion you can let go of externally as well. Think about whose opinions truly matter and mute the rest. You may be surprised how freeing it feels when you stop giving others so much of your power. 🦋