Self Critiquing vs. Self Improvement
We all know we’re our own harshest critiques. We want to do things perfectly and we want to get things right the first time or else we’re either not good enough, not strong enough, not coordinated enough, etc. I see this happen often with clients during workouts: “This is too hard for me.” “You made it look so easy.” “Why can’t I get this right, I’m so [insert harsh word here].” “I’m so weak.” Etc.
I always challenge my clients to change their narrative. Things are not “too hard for them,” they’re “challenging right now.” They can’t “not do it,” they’re simply “working on it.” They’re not “stupid” they’re being asked to do something they’ve never done before and are learning a new skill.
There’s a different between self-critiquing and self-improvement. The difference is that one comes from a more negative mindset and the other comes from a more positive one. It’s an AGAINST you mentality versus a FOR you mentality.
Let’s take this video for example. I can easily say things like my form isn’t perfect, core isn’t engaged when it should be, I fall out of the pose and can’t balance, etc. Instead of watching that video and critiquing myself and getting frustrated, I choose to be proud that I tried some new things. I am proud that I challenged myself enough to step out of my comfort zone. I fell and got back up to try again. I see the areas I want to improve and work upon so that one day I can be extra proud I got them done right. I don’t strive for perfection, I strive for progress.
Progress means I’m trying. Progress means I’m improving.
The next time you try something new (whether in a workout or in your personal life) check the thoughts you’re having and the way you’re talking to yourself. How can you change your narrative to work FOR you, not AGAINST you? Don’t criticize yourself just so you can sit there and feel terribly, acknowledge the challenge, show your body some appreciation, and find what you’d like to focus on getting better at!
If you’re looking for a safe space where you can learn how to let go of dieting for good, enjoy food without guilt, and turn exercise into something you love to do rather than something you “have” to do, submit a client application to get in contact with me! I work with clients virtually all over the world helping those who are frustrated with dieting and want to change their relationship with food and themselves.
Hi, I’m Azul Corajoria, an Integrative Health Coach, Personal Trainer & Yoga Instructor. I support my clients in making step-by-step changes so that they can live a healthy and balanced life. By recognizing the interdependent roles of mindset, nutrition, and movement I educate and hold my clients accountable for achieving their health goals through lifestyle and behavior adjustments with an emphasis on self-care. Together, we navigate the contradictory world of nutrition through intuitive eating, practice mindful movement, and implement small mindset and lifestyle shifts that empower them to be their best selves in the easiest way possible.
