IFS · Parts
Befriending the Inner Critic
Thank the long shift
The inner critic is a manager working overtime — often afraid that without its criticism, you'd fail catastrophically. Befriending, not silencing, is the door.
What the critic says most often
Ask it: what are you afraid would happen if you stopped?
How old does it feel? When did it take this job?
What Self offers it
Appreciation, not banishment
Thank the critic for its long shift. Only when it feels appreciated does it consider stepping back.