We all know that little voice, don’t we? The one that pops up as soon as we catch a glimpse of ourselves in the mirror and promptly becomes the world’s most relentless close-up inspector. With a laser focus on our so-called “flaws,” this inner critic is quick to point out everything from double chins to chubby cheeks and the fact that our right eye is somehow… different from the left one. But here’s the good news: that voice, while loud, isn’t the whole truth. In fact, it’s usually dead wrong.
So, if your inner critic has been running amok, here’s a guide to showing it the door and starting to embrace your real, wonderful self. After all, who has the time or energy to obsess over imperfections when there’s so much life to live?
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall… Why So Judgmental?
The classic fairytale mirror might just tell us we’re the fairest of them all, but real-life mirrors? They have a reputation for bringing out the critic in us. It’s like we become microscopic flaw-finders, zooming in on things like that bit of extra chin or our less-than-perfectly symmetrical features.
But consider this: Have you ever looked at someone and thought, Wow, their eye symmetry is off by like half a millimeter!? No? Because everyone else is just as busy with their own perceived flaws. No one’s got the time to critique the double chin that (let’s be honest) you’re the only one actually noticing.
My Inner Critic Listens to Adele, on Repeat
Whenever I used to catch myself on camera, my inner critic had a full concert moment. “Hello, it’s me… pointing out all the things you wish you could fix.” Chubby cheeks, a double chin, uneven skin tone—it all turned into a setlist of insecurities. This constant inner critique kept me from stepping up, from putting myself out there on video, and even from sharing a simple selfie.
Then one day, I asked myself: “Do I really want to keep singing this same old song?” Spoiler alert: I didn’t. And you shouldn’t either. Here’s how to change the tune.
Step One: Reality Check (Hint: It’s All in Your Head)
Remember, this close-up critique is a one-sided conversation—one that’s often far from reality. In today’s world, most people are focused on their own insecurities. Seriously, no one has the time to worry about the extra chin you think is dominating your selfie.
Picture this: Your inner critic is like an overly dramatic weather forecaster, predicting a “100% chance of flaw detection,” when, in reality, it’s bright and sunny, and everyone else is busy living their lives. This shift in perspective is huge. The more you let go of these so-called flaws, the less power they hold.
Step Two: Embrace Your Inner Quirkiness (It’s What Makes You, You)
Every “flaw” you notice—your big cheeks, your imperfect eyes, that quirky eyebrow raise when you’re deep in thought—is exactly what makes you unique. So, what if you have a few “imperfections”? Life would be boring if we were all “camera-ready” all the time. In fact, your real charm lies in your one-of-a-kind traits.
Next time you’re in front of the mirror, think of your imperfections as character highlights. Just like how every good novel has characters with quirks, you’re your own story’s star, and those quirks make the plot interesting.
Step Three: Jot Down That Inner Critic’s Greatest Hits
If you’re wondering how to silence that critic, try this trick: write down what it’s telling you. Yes, really. Put it all down—whether it’s “my cheeks are too chubby” or “everyone will notice my uneven eyes.” Once you see these thoughts on paper, they lose a little of their power. You start realizing that these “flaws” are really just quirks that make you stand out.
And here’s the bonus tip: After you’ve written them down, jot down one positive thing next to each criticism. For instance, next to “I have chubby cheeks,” write “I have a warm smile.” This process isn’t about ignoring reality; it’s about balancing it with self-compassion.
Step Four: Channel Your Inner Beyoncé (Because Who Doesn’t Want to Be That Confident?)
No, seriously—if Queen Bey worried about every minor flaw, we’d never have “Single Ladies.” So go ahead, hype yourself up. When you look in the mirror, remind yourself that no one notices or cares about these little imperfections. They're too busy dealing with their own insecurities.
Whether you’re recording a video, presenting in a meeting, or just strutting through life, own your quirks. Show up as the fullest, happiest version of yourself, and trust that the world will appreciate the real you far more than a perfectly filtered one.
So, What’s Next?
The next time you’re face-to-face with that inner critic in the mirror, don’t let it take over the conversation. Stand up, embrace your quirks, and remind yourself: “This is me, and I’m owning it.” Hit that record button, make that presentation, and let the world see you in all your imperfect glory. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Sign-Off: Here’s to every chubby cheek, every quirk, and every moment of self-acceptance that makes you, well… you!
- Chandana :)
PS: If anyone ever does mention your double chin, just know they’re probably too close to your personal space anyway. Embrace it, and offer them a snack to lighten the mood.
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