4 Books to Read to Face Your Inner Critic
The inner critic is one of the most talked about and yet – paradoxically – under-talked about aspects of what it means to be human.
We all know that voice, that feeling, that constriction that works from within to keep us measured and “in line.” We’ve all had an experience or two (or a hundred) where we want something, but hold back because something within us speaks to us with a shame-laced tone. And even if shame is nowhere present in our internal monologue, there’s still so often that part of us that works us into a box to protect us from the mystery and possible dangers of the unknown.
The inner critic operates as both protector and oppressor within us.
Over the course of the past two years, several books have been published that I think can help us, with softness and gentleness, to see our inner critics for what they are and allow them the space to let go their need to protect us.
Here they are: (and I’ll keep updating this list as more come out)
If you aren’t looking for a full book, I’ve also written this article the inner critic. I recommend checking it out and signing up for the free 5-day email series it mentions.
Unmasking the Inner Critic: Lessons for Living an Unconstricted Life, by Andrew Lang
I'm not good enough. I'm not in control. I don't know who I am.
These constrictions are brutal. But who among us hasn't felt one of these constrictions at some point in our lives?
Rooted in the teachings of mystics, saints, poets, and prophets, Unmasking the Inner Critic offers guidance and support for how to move beyond some of our most challenging fears and negative inner narratives.
With an intuitive blend of reflection questions, contemplative practices, action prompts, and his own personal story, Andrew Lang shares the wisdom from secular poets and therapists―as well as from Christianity, Buddhism, and Sufism―that has grounded his workshops for almost a decade.
Blessing My Demons: How to Name, Tame, and Transform Your Inner Critic, by Chelsea Forbrook
We all have an inner critic. Maybe you've tried to push it away, pretend it's not there, fight against it, numb yourself to it, or appease it with external validation.
What if instead of battling our demons, we tried befriending them? How would they transform if we thanked them for their concern, offered them a warm cup of tea and a kiss on the forehead, and affirmed: "I've got this"?
Chelsea Forbrook is a certified Enneagram teacher and spiritual director with almost a decade of experience coaching individuals and teams in inner work, healing, and self-awareness. Her personal experience with limiting negative thoughts (Enneagram One, anybody?) inspired her to explore the relationship between self-compassion and the subconscious mind.
Bringing together lessons from the Enneagram, Buddhism, Contemplative Christianity, and 12 Steps programs, this inner critic book shares powerful tips for how to name it, tame it―and ultimately, transform it.
Freedom from Your Inner Critic: A Self-Therapy Approach, by Jay Earley and Bonnie Weiss
We've all heard the voice of the inner critic―that part of us that judges us, shames us, and makes us feel inadequate.
"You don't want to give in to the Critic, and it doesn't really work to fight against it," explains Dr. Jay Earley. "But there is a way to transform it into an invaluable ally."
With Freedom from Your Inner Critic, Dr. Earley and psychotherapist Bonnie Weiss present a self-therapy approach for uncovering the psychological roots of our self-sabotaging inner voices and restoring our sense of worthiness.
Self-Love Workbook for Women: Release Self-Doubt, Build Self-Compassion, and Embrace Who You Are, by Megan Logan
Embrace who you are with this guided self-love book for women of any age and any background.
You'll embark on your journey of self-discovery by learning what self-love is, and then immersing yourself in exercises to help you build your self-esteem and improve your relationships.
Proven techniques: Fall in love with yourself using a variety of compassionate exercises rooted in mindfulness, self-care, and positive psychology.
Inspiring prompts and motivating activities: This self-esteem workbook features quizzes and journaling exercises that will help you tap into your emotions and let go of anxiety and limiting beliefs.
Empowering affirmations: Boost your positivity and nurture yourself with the uplifting affirmations interspersed throughout the book.
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