Replacing Self-Criticism
If self-criticism continues to occur, you have to find appropriate substitutes to replace it with. These require learning and a lot of practice, but will come with effort and time.
This short and simple exercise is a good start, which doesn’t require too much effort, and is a good way to create a baseline for further work.
Experiment with Self-Criticism
Self-criticism is a two pronged fork that may go in either direction. However, there is a way to ensure that despite self-criticism, one can lead a fulfilling and productive life. Here’s a two-day experiment with self-criticism.
The first day includes going about your usual routine, indulging in self-criticism as you would do on a normal day. The second day involves practicing thought-observation, without the judgment. This was earlier explained in the exercise on being mindful of your thoughts. Then follow it up with some constructive criticism.
Investigate Your Behavior
During both days, pay attention to how you feel and behave. Answer questions, such as “How does it feel, compared to a typical day?”, “Are you motivated to pursue your goals?”, “Did you achieve more or less than usual?”, “Was your behavior constructive and consistent with your goals?”
Compare and Contrast
Compare both the days and any similarities or differences between them. Gradually, you will come to realize that the days with constructive self-criticism make you happier and more efficient, compared to the ones with harsh self-criticism.
Check out our quiz-page with tests about:
Full reference:
Liya Panayotova (Mar 28, 2016). Replacing Self-Criticism. Retrieved Oct 16, 2024 from Explorable.com: https://explorable.com/e/replacing-self-criticism
You Are Allowed To Copy The Text
The text in this article is licensed under the Creative Commons-License Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).
This means you're free to copy, share and adapt any parts (or all) of the text in the article, as long as you give appropriate credit and provide a link/reference to this page.
That is it. You don't need our permission to copy the article; just include a link/reference back to this page. You can use it freely (with some kind of link), and we're also okay with people reprinting in publications like books, blogs, newsletters, course-material, papers, wikipedia and presentations (with clear attribution).
Footer bottom
Footer
Complete Collection
Like Explorable? Take it with you wherever you go.
Thank you to...
This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 827736.
Explorable.com - 2008-2024
You are free to copy, share and adapt any text in the article, as long as you give appropriate credit and provide a link/reference to this page.