Let’s be honest, if self-criticism were an Olympic sport, most working women would have at least five gold medals by now. We juggle deadlines, expectations, and approximately 4,987 responsibilities a day, all while convincing ourselves we’re still not doing enough. Sound familiar?
It’s time to take a step back, breathe (yes, right now), and give yourself a break. Because newsflash: you’re already doing AMAZING. You just need to start believing it. Here’s how to stop being your own worst critic and start thriving instead.
1. Stop Comparing Yourself to That ‘Perfect’ Woman (She Doesn’t Exist)
We all have that one coworker or Instagram influencer who somehow seems to do it all, flawlessly. But spoiler alert: she’s probably struggling too, she’s just really good at curating her highlight reel. Instead of measuring your success against someone else’s filtered life, focus on your own growth.
ACTION STEP: Next time you catch yourself in a comparison spiral, remind yourself that you only see a fraction of someone else’s story. Then, list three things YOU’VE accomplished lately. Yes, reheating your coffee before it went completely cold counts.
2. Fire Your Inner Critic (Because She’s the Worst Boss Ever)
If your inner voice were a person, would you want to be friends with her? Probably not. That’s because she’s the one whispering things like, “You should have done better,” and “Why are you even trying?” Well, guess what? She’s wrong.
ACTION STEP: The next time your inner critic starts ranting, pause and ask yourself: “Would I say this to my best friend?” If the answer is no, then you have no business saying it to yourself either.
3. Set Boundaries Like a Boss (Without the Guilt Trip)
Somehow, society has convinced us that saying “no” means we’re difficult, unhelpful, or (gasp!) selfish. But let’s get real, burnout isn’t a badge of honor, and overextending yourself won’t earn you an award. It just makes you exhausted.
ACTION STEP: The next time someone asks you to take on more than you can handle, practice saying, “I’d love to help, but my plate is full right now.” If they push back? Remember: their disappointment is not your responsibility.
4. Celebrate the Small Wins (Because They Matter Too!)
Why do we only celebrate the big things, like promotions and major milestones, while ignoring the everyday victories? Managing to work out twice this week? Win. Finally clearing your inbox (even though it lasted for exactly five minutes)? Another win.
ACTION STEP: At the end of each day, write down one thing you did well. It doesn’t have to be life-changing, just something that made your day a little better. Over time, you’ll start seeing just how much you actually accomplish.
5. Remember: You Are Already Enough
We spend so much time trying to prove ourselves, at work, at home, in life, that we forget we were already worthy before we even started. You are not your productivity. You are not just a job title. You are a whole, valuable person just as you are.
ACTION STEP: Repeat after me: “I am enough. I have always been enough. I will always be enough.” Say it again. Say it louder. And say it until you actually believe it.
Here’s the truth: You don’t need to hustle harder. You don’t need to prove yourself. You just need to give yourself some grace.
So, tell me, what’s one way you are going to be kinder to yourself this week? Drop a comment below, and let’s hold each other accountable. Because if anyone deserves a little compassion, it’s you.