How Self-Criticism Keeps You Stuck
Dylan Moore, Founder Balanced Analysis LLC and Breaking Barriers University
Let’s get real for a moment: How often do you find yourself trapped in a loop of self-criticism? You know the one—where you replay every mistake, dissect every flaw, and convince yourself you’re not enough? It’s exhausting, isn’t it? Here’s the truth: Self-criticism doesn’t make you better; it keeps you stuck. It’s a cage that locks away your potential, your joy, and your power. But here’s the good news: You don’t have to stay there. You have the ability to break free, to rise fierce and free, and to reclaim the life you deserve. Let’s talk about how.
The Mirror That Lied to Me
Let me take you back to a moment that changed everything for me. A few years ago, I stood in front of a mirror, staring at my reflection, and all I could see were flaws. My body, my choices, my career—nothing felt good enough. I was my own worst critic, and it was crushing me. One day, after yet another spiral of self-doubt, I realized something: The voice in my head wasn’t helping me grow; it was holding me hostage. It was keeping me small, afraid, and stuck.
That realization hit me like a ton of bricks. I knew I had to make a change—not just for myself, but for the women I wanted to serve. I wanted to show them that they didn’t have to live in that cage of self-criticism. They could rise fierce and free, just like I was learning to do. So, here’s what I want you to know: I see you, I feel you, and I’m rooting for you. Let’s walk this path together.
The Weight of Self-Criticism
Self-criticism isn’t just a bad habit; it’s a heavy burden that so many of us carry. It’s the voice that whispers, “You’re not smart enough,” “You’re not thin enough,” or “You’re not doing enough.” And let’s be honest—it’s relentless. It doesn’t matter how much you achieve or how many people cheer you on; that inner critic always finds a way to dim your light.
Why does this matter? Because self-criticism doesn’t just hurt your feelings—it shapes your life. It keeps you from taking risks, pursuing dreams, and embracing your worth. It tells you to stay small, to play it safe, and to settle for less than you deserve. And in a world that already puts so much pressure on women to be perfect, self-criticism becomes another layer of oppression.
But here’s the thing: You don’t have to carry that weight anymore. You deserve to live a life that’s full of joy, confidence, and freedom. And it starts with recognizing that self-criticism isn’t the truth—it’s just a story you’ve been telling yourself.
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How to Break Free from Self-criticism
Ready to break free from self-criticism and step into your power? Here are a few steps to get you started:
- Notice the Critic: The first step is awareness. Pay attention to when that critical voice shows up. What does it say? How does it make you feel? Simply noticing it can help you take away its power.
- Challenge the Narrative: Ask yourself, “Is this really true?” Often, self-criticism is based on fear, not facts. Replace those harsh words with kinder, more truthful ones. For example, instead of “I’m such a failure,” try “I’m learning and growing.”
- Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself like you would treat a dear friend. When you make a mistake, offer yourself the same grace and understanding you’d give to someone you love.
- Celebrate Your Wins: Take time to acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. Did you get out of bed today? Win. Did you try something new? Win. Celebrating your wins helps shift your focus from what’s wrong to what’s right.
- Seek Support: You don’t have to do this alone. Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you. Join a community, find a mentor, or reach out to a friend who gets it.
Remember, this isn’t about being perfect—it’s about progress. Take it one step at a time. You’ve got this.
Rise Fierce and Free
Self-criticism may have kept you stuck in the past, but it doesn’t have to define your future. You have the power to rewrite the story, to silence the critic, and to step into your worth. You are enough, just as you are. And you deserve a life that’s full of joy, confidence, and freedom.
So, let’s do this together. Let’s rise fierce and free. Take a moment today to reflect on your journey. Where has self-criticism held you back? And what’s one small step you can take to break free?
You’re stronger than you know, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way. Let’s rise, together.
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Hi, I’m Dylan Moore — and I’m here to help you move past the pain and the trauma that have stood in the way of your healing.
For over 30 years, I’ve guided women through emotional recovery and personal transformation. As an Author and Cognitive Behavioral Specialist, my mission is to empower you with the tools and support you need to break free from the past.
I founded Balanced Analysis LLC and Breaking Barriers University to make healing practical, approachable, and real. I take complex psychological concepts and turn them into clear, actionable steps—always with compassion and care.
Now, it’s your turn to release the hurt and step into the greatest version of who you were always meant to be. And I’ll be right here to walk that path with you.
