Milo Session #04: Reframing the Inner Critic

• Every leader has an inner critic—that persistent voice that says “You’re not doing enough,” “You should’ve handled that better,” or “You’re not cut out for this.” The problem isn’t that the voice exists—it’s believing it without question.

👥 Why Do We Have an Inner Critic?

Your inner critic is often rooted in:

• Past feedback that stuck too deeply
• Fear of failure or rejection
• Perfectionism or imposter syndrome
• A misguided attempt to keep you “safe” by holding you back

It’s trying to protect you—but it’s using outdated scripts.

🔁 Reframe It: From Harsh Judge → Inner Coach

Instead of trying to silence your inner critic, get curious about it.

• Instead of saying "You should be better at this.", rather say "You’re learning. What’s one thing to improve next time?”
• Instead of saying “That meeting was a disaster.”, rather say “You showed up. What went well, and what would you change?”
• Instead of saying “Everyone’s doing better than you.”, rather say “Comparison distracts from your path. What’s your next right step?”

✍️ Self-Coaching Journal Prompts

• “What exactly did my inner critic say today?”
• “Where might that voice come from? Is it truly mine, or learned?”
• “What would I say to a friend who felt this way?”
• “How can I turn this self-talk into something more constructive?”

🧩 Quick Technique: The “Name It to Tame It” Exercise

Notice the thought: E.g., “I’m behind. I’m failing.”

Label it: “That’s my perfectionist inner critic.”

Reframe it: “I’m feeling pressure. But this is a growth phase. Progress, not perfection.”

Breathe & choose a kinder next step.

🛋️ Remember: Milo is here to help you notice, pause, and speak to yourself the way a great leader would.