Boost your self confidence- silence your inner critic

If you’re anything like me, you’re your harshest critic. If a friend spoke to you the way you speak to yourself, you wouldn’t tolerate it. I’ve been working to be my friend more than my foe. It takes time and practice, but it’s worth it. Here are practical ways to silence the inner bully.

Listen to your thoughts

Trying to shove negative thoughts away only makes them louder. Instead, notice them without judgment. Acknowledge they’re there, let them pass, and don’t buy into the stories they tell. I sometimes literally roll my eyes and laugh — it takes the power out of the thought and makes it less scary.

Use affirmations

When you catch yourself in a negative loop, counter it with something true and positive. It can feel awkward at first, but consistency changes the internal narrative. After rides I write down what went well; building that bank of wins makes it easier to drown out the critic when it shows up.

Identify your insecurities

Pinpointing where your negative thoughts come from is useful, not shameful. Once you know the source, you can take kind, practical steps to address it — or accept it with compassion.

Turn negativity into motivation

Procrastination or avoidance often feeds the critical voice. Instead of giving the critic ammo, use that discomfort as fuel: take one small action, and you’ll break the cycle. Progress, not perfection, silences the bully.

Final note

Changing your inner dialogue takes time and repetition. Be patient, celebrate small wins, and treat yourself like the teammate you deserve.

If you want to get out of your own way and break through limiting beliefs, check out my mindset courses, or book a 1 on 1 mindset session!