Taking back the wheel: How to quiet your Inner Critic and reclaim control over your life.
- An-Karlien
- Jan 17
- 4 min read
Introduction: Recognizing the voice that holds you back
Have you ever felt trapped in an endless loop of doubt, criticism, and fear of failure? You make plans, dream big, and yet a voice inside you keeps saying, "That's too risky," "You're not ready," or "You'll never be good enough." That persistent negativity is your Inner Critic—a relentless commentator that thrives on pointing out your flaws, highlighting dangers, and keeping you safe in the comfort zone. While its intentions may be protective, its effects can be paralyzing, leaving you frustrated, disempowered, and unable to take the reins of your life.
In this article, we’ll explore a powerful method to silence this internal naysayer and regain control. Through the process of externalizing your Inner Critic, you’ll learn how to distance yourself from its influence, reclaim your energy, and make space for your higher self to guide you.
The Inner Critic: A master of sabotage
What does the Inner Critic do?
The Inner Critic operates as an overprotective guard, often leading to:
Constant objections: It questions every decision you make.
Fear of risk: It keeps you stuck, discouraging you from trying anything new.
Negative focus: It amplifies what’s missing, wrong, or dangerous.
Endless commentary: Its incessant chatter drains your energy and resolve.
The emotional toll
Allowing your Inner Critic to take the steering wheel leads to:
Frustration and disappointment: Unfulfilled dreams and abandoned goals.
Low energy: The constant stream of criticism saps your vitality.
Self-doubt and anger: Especially anger directed at yourself for staying stuck.
Ultimately, this voice robs you of your vital life force, making it harder to enjoy the journey or embrace growth.
Externalizing the Inner Critic: A transformative technique
One of the most effective ways to regain control is by externalizing your Inner Critic. This approach helps you disassociate from the voice, creating space for empowerment.
Step 1: Identify the voice
Recognize the Inner Critic as a distinct part of you. Its purpose is protection, but it often operates from fear rather than wisdom.
Step 2: Choose an object
Find a physical object to represent your Inner Critic. For instance, during a holiday shopping trip, I stumbled upon a figurine of Professor Snape from the Harry Potter series. His stern expression and critical demeanor perfectly symbolized my Inner Critic. Now, Snape sits on a shelf—a constant reminder that this voice is separate from me.
Step 3: Give it a place
Place the object somewhere in your home. This act of "parking" the Inner Critic outside yourself creates a psychological distance, helping you see it as just one perspective, not your identity.
Why this works: The psychology behind externalization
Externalizing the Inner Critic is rooted in psychological principles:
De-identification: By viewing the Critic as separate, you’re no longer enslaved by its voice.
Empowered choice: You can choose to listen or ignore its warnings.
Shifted focus: Instead of reacting to negativity, you align with your higher self, focusing on possibilities and solutions.
The benefits of letting go
1. Clarity and perspective
By externalizing the Critic, you gain clarity about its role. It’s easier to evaluate whether its warnings are valid or exaggerated.
2. Emotional freedom
Distancing yourself from the constant negativity allows you to experience peace and joy.
3. Better decision-making
With the Inner Critic parked outside, you can make decisions aligned with your values and aspirations rather than fear.
4. Renewed energy
No longer drained by criticism, you’ll have more energy to invest in your passions and relationships.
5. Stronger leadership
As a leader, silencing the Inner Critic helps you project confidence and authenticity, inspiring others to do the same.
My Story: Turning "Snape" into
my ally
During the holiday season, I came across a figurine of Snape. His critical demeanor immediately reminded me of my Inner Critic. By assigning him this role, I created a tangible way to distance myself from his negativity. Now, when I’m faced with self-doubt, I glance at Snape and say, "Thank you for your input, but I’ve got this." It’s a simple yet profound reminder that I am in control.
Practical tips for externalizing your inner critic
Find the right object: Choose something that resonates with you—a figurine, a rock, or even a drawing.
Name it: Giving your Inner Critic a name adds another layer of separation.
Interact playfully: Talk to it when it’s particularly loud. Humor can diffuse its power.
Set boundaries: Decide when and if you’ll "consult" your Inner Critic.
Reflect regularly: Journal about how externalizing the Critic has impacted your mindset and actions.
Reclaim your power
Your Inner Critic doesn’t have to control your life. By externalizing it, you create the space to listen to your higher self—the part of you that believes in your potential and supports your dreams. Give it a try: find an object, name your Critic, and start the process of taking back the wheel.
What would your Inner Critic look like? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to create more empowered, joyful lives.
I’ve shared how a “Snape” figurine helped me take back control from my Inner Critic. What object would you choose to symbolize yours? Share your ideas below!