Challenges of Being Self-Critical That Are Worth the End Results
There are challenges of being self-critical, but the results are worth it. It might be a common thought to think of self-criticism as a negative or unpopular idea however, it can bring about an extremely powerful change in us. Although self-reflection can be a love-hate relationship it’s the essence of taking responsibility for oneself. In other words, there are some perceived challenges with this but if you look through the lens of mindfulness those challenges are opportunities to learn, grow and have compassion for us.
The following are some of those challenges that are worth the results. However, they may seem like they are not at times it’s important to consider the big picture. The big picture is becoming a better person and it’s a process and not easy. In addition, becoming the best version of ourselves isn’t easy either. If we can suffer through these challenges, we will be better on the other side of them.
1 Mental Fatigue lets you assess your limits.
Thinking about your thinking and constantly evaluating your actions can be tiresome. Furthermore, it allows us to consider our limits. Although we become mentally fatigued at times we will still recover if we allow ourselves to. Recovery might take some time, a positive coping response, some self-care, or even a good night’s sleep. After that, it will pass we just have to figure out what works for us. If you struggle with Mental Fatigue check out my post on clarity it will help you look through a different lens.
2 Projecting expectations of criticism on others.
By constantly assessing our thinking and behaviors we can develop a thought or belief that others should be doing the same thing. In addition, considering being critical of others doesn’t fit into becoming the best version of us. For instance, becoming a better person is having compassion for others. Above all, having tactful conversations is designed to do the least amount of harm possible. Lastly, if you struggle with projecting expectations on others check out my mindfulness post it might help you see things differently.
3 Taking full responsibility for us can be overwhelming.
We tend to get ourselves into predicaments on occasion. Furthermore, when we realize or become aware of the mess we have created it’s time to own responsibility. Although, occasionally it’s difficult to figure out what direction we should go. One of the thoughts that always come to mind for me is transparency. The more transparent we are typically the better the outcome. Above all, when we accept what’s going on and become transparent with ourselves and others we come out of our denial and save face with those around us. Lastly, transparency is a building block and it alleviates stress. Transparency can stop stress in its tracks. It’s exhausting trying to keep up with the narrative we want others to perceive. In conclusion, taking full responsibility for ourselves may be overwhelming at first but it allows us to move on to bigger and more meaningful relationships with ourselves and others.
4 Self-criticism might feel like placing blame on us but it’s not, it’s about growth.
Often time, when we move to a different stage in our life there is typically some type of internal contemplation. Furthermore, it’s difficult taking that leap of owning responsibility. Throughout the process of change taking responsibility is a must. In addition without it, we won’t change. Being self-critical helps us get to the next place in our personal change process. I challenge you to consider that without self-criticism real meaningful long-lasting change isn’t possible. Lastly blame sounds like a harsh word but taking responsibility for your actions is really what it is. Taking responsibility will no doubtable will help you become the best version of yourself.
Conclusion
There are challenges of being self-critical that are worth the result. Furthermore, it can bring about mental fatigue, and higher expectations of others, can be overwhelming, and at times and even create a feeling of your blaming yourself. On the other hand, it’s worth the results. If we can be vulnerable and suffer through self and other’s criticism we will without a doubt grow. We will change into a better version of ourselves. In addition, change won’t happen overnight it takes hundreds of small steps but each small step helps us build momentum. Lastly, looking at criticism through the lens of a true learning experience and accepting the results regardless of who is delivering the message (us or them) will take you further than you ever thought possible.
If you like what you have read, check out other articles on the website ThinkingDeeplySelf-Critically.com the site is designed to give us tools and techniques to help us become the best version of ourselves. There are four main categories on the site. The Foundation, Our Responsibility to Us, Our Responsibility to Others and Facilitating Crisis. We can also be found on Pinterest.
