Breaking Free from Self-Criticism: How to Stop Being Your Own Worst Enemy

I used to think that being hard on myself was the only way to improve. That if I wasn’t constantly pointing out my flaws, I’d never grow. But the truth? Self-criticism didn’t make me better—it made me smaller. It led to overthinking, self-sabotage, and this constant feeling that I wasn’t enough. The worst part? I didn’t even notice I was doing it. It became my default. A tiny mistake? “Ugh, why am I like this?” A missed opportunity? “Of course, I messed it up.” I was treating myself in a way I would never treat a friend. And the more I did it, the more I disconnected from who I really was. Because self-criticism isn’t just about negative thoughts—it’s the opposite of self-love, because you reject the beauty in yourself. It creates a version of yourself that feels unworthy, even when deep down, you’re not. So, how do we change this? Two things helped me: 1. Catch yourself and replace criticism with kindness The first step is awareness. Pay attention to those automatic harsh though...