18/06/2026
What if being harder on yourself is actually what’s keeping you stuck?
Many people believe that if they’re more critical, more disciplined or more demanding of themselves, things will finally change.
But self-criticism often creates more pressure, more shame and more isolation.
And when you’re already struggling, those things can make it even harder to care for yourself.
If speaking kindly to yourself feels impossible right now, start here:
1. Notice your inner critic and ask, “Would I say this to someone I care about?”
2. Speak to yourself as you would a friend who was struggling.
3. Remember that being human means finding things difficult sometimes. And that is OK.
Self-compassion can feel, especially if you’ve spent years motivating yourself through criticism.
But that is why it has a big impact in recovery.