The Busy Season is Coming!

We are heading into the busy time of year! I can’t believe that Thanksgiving will be here next week (for those of us in the United States)! This is the best time for extreme self-care.

It’s a good time to look at what you “must do” and what would be “nice to get done”, and choose wisely (for what would keep you calm, joyful, and rested).

This year I am choosing to be proactive with some of my holiday tasks, and that feels really good to get them done before things get too busy. I’m trying to get extra sleep when I can so that I don’t head into the season already exhausted!

So, as another act of self-care, instead of writing a new article for this blog post, I am choosing to post an article I posted last Fall that I think will be a great reminder for those of you who had read it last year, and helpful for those reading it for the first time. It talks about the stress and pressure we put on ourselves, and how to avoid listening to our harsh “Inner Critic”. At this time of year, we often place high expectations on ourselves.

Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday! I am grateful for you!

Calming Your Inner Critical Voice

Most of us think that pressure manifests when we have too much work or when our schedules are jam packed, however, the majority of stress and anxiety comes from the pressure we put on ourselves.

I believe there are ten main sources of stress … and they all come from our own negative “inner voice”.  

In other words, rather than remembering our own unique Light, we create stress in our life by judging ourselves too harshly.

As part of my self-care, I try to be mindful of my “inner critical voice” and the reasons that stress creeps into my life.  

I invite you to take a look at the list below. How many do you recognize?

 
1. Self-criticism

2. Powerlessness

3. Perfectionism

4. Worry

5. Unrealistic expectations

6. Insecurity

7. Hurrying

8. Comparing to others

9. Pessimism

10. Competition

I’d like to share some tips on how you can silence your inner critic and strengthen your inner voice.

1. Focus on your strengths.  To tame your inner critic, focus on your strengths rather than your weaknesses. And, forgive your imperfections.

2. Look at your choices.  Instead of feeling powerlessness, open your eyes to all the choices in front of you. We are all powerful beyond measure.

3. Do your best.  We all have room for improvement. There is so much to learn and experience that being a perfectionist doesn’t serve us well. Do your best, but let the elusive “perfect” go.

4. Trust.  Faith, trust and action are the best antidote to worry, especially about situations we cannot control. Trust in Spirit, your angels, and your Divine guidance.

5. Have realistic expectations. Life will never be problem-free, however, our outlook can be. Try to focus on what you have, rather than what you lack.

6. Emotional Security.  We have what we need to be emotionally secure. It’s inside each one of us. Look inward for balance and joy. Others can’t provide it.  

7. Slow life down.  Try walking slower, chewing slower and working at a steady, but not frantic pace. Take breaks to refresh yourself. You’ll be surprised to find yourself performing better.

8. Stop comparing yourself to others. Instead of looking at what others have, compare your success and accomplishments to your goals and dreams. Keep looking forward and taking inspired action.

9. Expect the best from life.  Spirit has a way of supplying us with what we need. Keep positive, even when you see the worst.

10. Look for the lesson within.  Every failure has a silver lining. Focus on what you’ve learned and you will always find success.

I invite you to give these a try! Let your Inner Wise One’s voice be much stronger than your Inner Critic’s voice.