From Chaos to Calm: How to Manage a Busy Mind and Actually Be Productive

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If your inner critic has been loud lately, I want you to know you’re not alone.

 

That little voice—the one that points out every mistake, questions every decision, and whispers, “You’re not good enough”—can be relentless. But here’s the truth: that voice is lying to you.

 

You are so much more than your inner critic would have you believe. And while silencing it completely might feel impossible, you can turn down the volume. Let’s work through it together, step by step.

Notice When Your Inner Critic Speaks Up

The first step to quieting your inner critic is simply noticing it. Pay attention to those moments when negative thoughts creep in. Maybe it’s after you make a mistake, when you’re trying something new, or even during quiet moments when doubt sneaks in uninvited.

 

When you notice that voice, don’t beat yourself up for it. Acknowledge it gently, like you would with a stubborn child. Say to yourself, “Ah, there it is again.”

 

Challenge the Critic with Kindness

Here’s a question to ask yourself when your inner critic gets loud: “Would I say this to a friend?”

 

Imagine someone you love coming to you, full of doubt and self-criticism. How would you respond? Chances are, you’d offer them reassurance and kindness. So why not do the same for yourself?

 

For example:

• If your critic says, “You’re terrible at this,” try responding with, “It’s okay to make mistakes while I’m learning.”
• If it says, “You’re not good enough,” remind yourself, “I am doing my best, and that’s more than enough.”

 

Kindness is powerful—it’s the antidote to self-doubt.

Reframe Negative Thoughts into Constructive Ones

Your inner critic loves to exaggerate. It sees one small misstep and declares it a disaster. But you don’t have to believe everything it says.

 

When a negative thought pops up, try reframing it:

• Instead of “I failed,” think, “I tried, and now I’ve learned what to do differently next time.”
• Instead of “I’m not good enough,” remind yourself, “I’m a work in progress, and progress is still progress.”

 

Reframing isn’t about pretending everything is perfect; it’s about shifting your focus to what’s true and constructive.

Surround Yourself with Positive Reminders

Sometimes, we need a little help to counteract our inner critic. Surround yourself with reminders of your worth and achievements.

• Write down compliments you’ve received and keep them somewhere visible.
• Create a list of things you’re proud of, no matter how small they seem.
• Put sticky notes with positive affirmations around your home, so encouragement is always within reach.

 

These small reminders can help drown out the negativity when it tries to take over.

Practise Self-Compassion

You’re going to have days when your inner critic feels louder than ever. On those days, remind yourself that it’s okay to struggle. You don’t have to have everything figured out, and you don’t have to be perfect.

 

Try this: when self-doubt creeps in, place your hand on your heart and say, “I’m doing my best, and that’s enough. I am enough.”

 

Be gentle with yourself. You’re human, and humans aren’t meant to have it all together all the time.

Celebrate Your Wins—Big and Small

Your inner critic thrives on pointing out your mistakes, so make an effort to celebrate your successes instead.

 

Did you tick something off your to-do list today? Celebrate it.
Did you try something new, even if it felt uncomfortable? Celebrate that too.
Every step forward, no matter how small, is worth acknowledging.

 

Confidence grows when we recognise our own efforts, even in the face of self-doubt.

You Are So Much More Than Your Inner Critic

Here’s the truth: your inner critic doesn’t define you. It’s just a voice—a loud, annoying one at times—but it doesn’t reflect your true worth.

 

You are brave, capable, and so much stronger than you give yourself credit for. And every time you choose kindness over criticism, you’re proving that your inner critic isn’t in charge.

 

So, the next time that voice gets loud, remember: you have the power to quiet it. Speak to yourself like you would to someone you love, because you deserve nothing less.

 

Mindfully yours,
Jade  - EmpowHer Box xo.