Want to know something that’s similar to paralyzing fear and almost as destructive?
It’s self-judgment, being so hard on yourself that you lose positive perspective and lose motivation to keep trying.
- For instance, do you ever tell yourself you’re not good enough for a healthy life?
- That you’re too this or not enough that?
- That “everybody else” seems to have it so easy?
We all do.
But don’t let healthy accountability become a roadblock to exercising regularly, eating right, and managing your lifestyle.
When that inner critic gets too loud, it can erode confidence and motivation.
Try these strategies to keep your mindset constructive, healthy and balanced:
- Talk to yourself like a friend. Encouragement works better than insults.
- Challenge negativity. Replace “I always fail” with “I had a rough day, and tomorrow’s a new one.”
- Celebrate progress. Small wins build momentum, so acknowledge them along the way.
- Accept imperfection. No one does everything right all the time. (Even you.)
- Shift your focus outward. Help someone else. It’s the best thing you can do to amp up gratitude and silence the inner critic.
Owning your results means learning from mistakes, not punishing yourself for them. “Yep, I did that. Will do better next time. Onward.”
The most successful people treat themselves with patience and persistence.
If you wouldn’t say it to someone else, don’t say it to yourself.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.