Episode 70 How to Change Your Inner Critic's Story

In this episode, Sarah explores why the inner critic exists and how it often tries to protect us from perceived risks like rejection, failure, or judgement. The challenge is that while it may have good intentions, it can also keep us stuck, holding back from the opportunities we truly want.Sarah shares three practical strategies to help you quieten your inner critic and strengthen your inner coach so you can move forward with more confidence and self-trust.Show Notes00:00 – Welcome to Unstuck and Unstoppable 01:17 – Episode introduction: The inner critic Why this topic comes up frequently in coaching sessions and how it affects confidence, career progression, and leadership.02:15 – What the inner critic sounds like Common thoughts that trigger self-doubt and prevent action.03:20 – Why we actually have an inner critic Understanding the brain’s role in protecting us from physical and emotional risk.05:00 – How limiting beliefs fuel the inner critic Where these beliefs come from and how they become ammunition for self-doubt.06:10 – Your inner narrative and the story you tell yourself How unconscious scripts shape what you believe is possible for you.07:10 – Strategy 1: Notice and rewrite the narrative Becoming aware of the story you’re telling yourself and consciously editing it.08:05 – Flipping the script Using the perspective of how you would speak to a friend to create a more empowering narrative.08:40 – Strategy 2: Evidence-based reframing Using real achievements and experiences to challenge the inner critic.09:25 – Client example: Recovering confidence after burnout How reframing helped a client rebuild trust in herself and pursue leadership again.11:20 – Strategy 3: Create distance from your inner critic Naming and externalising the inner critic to reduce its power.12:20 – Real client example: Visualising and managing the inner critic How one creative technique dramatically quietened a client’s inner critic.13:10 – Strengthening your inner coach Why self-trust is essential for leadership growth.14:05 – Reflection exercise for listeners A simple question to help you challenge your inner critic this week.Useful LinksEpisode 51: How to Change Your Inner Critic into Your Inner CoachSign up for Weekly Career InspirationLearn about Leadership & Advancement Coaching ProgrammesBook a Free 121 Clarity CallConnect with Sarah on LinkedInYour inner critic isn’t trying to sabotage you - it’s trying to protect you. But when you learn how to rewrite the story it’s telling and strengthen your inner coach, you create the confidence and self-trust needed to step into bigger opportunities.Rate & Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Unstuck & Unstoppable helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you're kind enough to leave a review, please do let Sarah know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: [email protected]