Kill the Critic…

Let me ask you something… Do you know who your worst critic is? The one that will hold you back? I bet I can guess.

 

It’s you…

I know what you tell yourself – that you’re not good enough, you aren’t smart enough or working hard enough, and you don’t have what it takes. (And that’s the PG version of the dialogue.) I know this because everyone does this from time to time. (Some more than others – you know who you are.

 

Somewhere in your life, you probably heard these messages from someone and picked it up as your own dialogue. But really, how motivating is it to hear everyday? How motivating is it to say everyday? Chances are it makes you feel frustrated, discouraged, and like you have to pick yourself off the ground.

 

Here’s the thing. You’d never say these things to your best friends. If you did, you wouldn’t be friends for much longer. Instead, you would offer them words of encouragement – keep going, don’t give up, you can do it, I believe in you! You would help them see how great they are, what amazing things they’ve achieved, and inspire them to take the next step toward their goals.

 

Imagine for a moment that you’re best friend called you up everyday to offer words of encouragement and support. He or she would call and say, “Hey friend, I know you’re dedicated, hard working, and committed to growing your business. I just know you are going hit your goal. Look at what you’ve already accomplished! That’s amazing! Stay focused – you can absolutely do this!” How would that make a difference for you? Would you feel more motivated and get more done? I’d say heck yeah!

 

It’s time to take responsibility for our “self-talk” and become that best friend for ourselves. This isn’t just fluffy positive thinking and pom-pom cheerleading. We’re talking about real-deal support that motivates you into action. Real motivation doesn’t come from external sources – it comes from within our self-talk. Be your own best friend and your productivity will skyrocket.