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Let’s be real—your inner voice can be harsh. That relentless critic highlights flaws, compares your progress to others’ highlights, and makes you feel inadequate.

But here’s an important truth: You are not your inner critic. That voice is just noise. You can soften and redirect it, creating a mindset that is gentle and supportive rather than harsh and demanding.

Let’s talk about how to quiet that critic and replace it with a kinder, more compassionate narrative.

💭 First, Why Is That Inner Voice So Loud?

The inner critic often comes from a desire to protect us or push us toward success. Maybe you grew up thinking you had to be perfect to earn approval. Or maybe the hustle culture we’re surrounded by has you convinced that you’re only valuable when you’re productive.

What works better? Self-compassion. Approaching yourself with kindness actually boosts your resilience, helps you focus, and keeps you energized for the long haul.

Here are a few ways to start cultivating a gentler mindset:

Give Your Inner Critic a Funny Persona 🎭

It may sound strange, but naming your inner critic and imagining it as a silly character can help you disarm its power. Picture it as an overdramatic movie villain or a clumsy cartoon character. When that voice pipes up with negativity, mentally say, “Thanks for your input, Brenda, but I’m good.” Humor takes the sting out of self-criticism and helps you detach from it.

By creating distance between yourself and the thought, you weaken its power.

Start a "Small Wins Jar" 🫙

Every time you do something—even if it feels tiny—write it down on a slip of paper and drop it in a jar. Finished an assignment? Said no to an overwhelming request? Took a day off guilt-free? It all counts. On rough days, pull out a few slips and remind yourself of your progress.

Some of the team’s small wins this week include:

• 🧁 Baking chestnut tiramisu

• 🧺 Putting away the laundry RIGHT AFTER drying it

• 💐 Picked up cute peonies for their desk

Flip the Script with Curiosity 🌼

Instead of accepting your inner critic’s narrative, get curious. When a negative thought pops up, ask:

• 💭 What’s this thought trying to protect me from?

• 💭 Is there a lesson here I can learn without being harsh on myself?
  Curiosity turns criticism into constructive reflection rather than self-sabotage.

Healing that critical voice takes time, but every small act of self-kindness gets you closer to a mind that supports, rather than sabotages, your growth.

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Real or AI 🤖

Welcome back, y’all, and we hope you have had a restful weekend so far! 🥰 Last week, we presented you with two heart shaped chocolate boxes… one… especially wonky. 84% of you were right in selecting Image 1 as the REAL box of chocolates! 💝 

Now, for a tough one: This week imagine leaning in close to admire a bouquet of blooms. Tulips standing tall, their petals smooth and velvety. Carnations nestled between them, frilly and delicate. The colors blend beautifully, creating a visual treat for anyone who loves flowers.

But here’s the twist—one of these images isn’t real. Maybe the tulips are a little too perfect, or the carnations look suspiciously uniform. One bouquet is fresh from the florist; the other is a clever AI creation.

Can you tell which is which? Trust your instincts and vote for the bouquet you think is real 🌷✨

Sending you all the love and grace you deserve. 💛

rorrie 🌱 & devin 🌎