CBT Tooltalk - all articles #1-26
#1 - The Inner Critic - Identifying Negative Thoughts (Part 1) Have you ever caught yourself thinking unhelpful things? That nagging voice in your head that brings you down? That's your inner critic, and we all have one. Whether you're on a journey of self-improvement or want to help someone else, the first step is to become aware of these thoughts. Shlomo Hamelech reminds us, “כי כאשר יחשב בלבו כן הוא" “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he...” (Mishlei 23:7). Our thoughts have a powerful impact on our lives. Let's look at a real-life example. I run a small eyeglasses business from home. Last week a customer (let’s call him Reuven) forgot his prescription. Under his breath, I heard him mutter harshly, "I left my prescription at home, I'm so stupid!" Most of us don't speak our inner critic's messages aloud like Reuven did. But it's important to pay attention to what that voice is saying! Here are three ways to catch your inner critic in...