How to stop being so hard on yourself

As men, we can be our own worst critic. We put so much pressure on ourselves to be successful, to achieve our goals, and to provide for our families. But sometimes, this pressure can lead to self-doubt, negative self-talk, and a never-ending cycle of being hard on ourselves. If you're struggling with this, know that you're not alone. Here are 10 tips to help you be kinder to yourself and overcome self-criticism.

1. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to a close friend who is struggling. Acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes and has flaws, and that you are no exception.

2. Challenge negative self-talk: When you hear negative thoughts in your head, challenge them. Ask yourself if they are true or if they are just your inner critic speaking.

3. Focus on your strengths: Instead of focusing on your weaknesses or what you're not good at, focus on your strengths and what you have accomplished.

4. Set realistic goals: Don't set yourself up for failure by setting unrealistic goals. Set goals that are challenging but achievable.

5. Take care of yourself: Make sure you're taking care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally. This includes getting enough sleep, exercise, and eating a healthy diet.

6. Practice mindfulness: Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings in the present moment without judgment. This can help you become more aware of your self-criticism and negative self-talk.

7. Surround yourself with positivity: Surround yourself with positive people and things that make you feel good about yourself. This could be spending time with loved ones, listening to uplifting music, or reading inspiring books.

8. Practice gratitude: Focus on what you are grateful for in your life. This can help shift your mindset away from self-criticism and towards appreciation.

9. Learn from mistakes: Instead of beating yourself up for making a mistake, learn from it. Ask yourself what you can do differently next time.

10. Seek help if needed: If you are struggling with self-criticism and it is impacting your daily life, seek help from a professional such as a therapist or life coach.

Remember, being hard on yourself is not the answer. By practicing self-compassion, challenging negative self-talk, and focusing on your strengths, you can overcome self-criticism and lead a happier, more fulfilling life.

This article is courtesy of Aaron Solly, Founder of Engage Coaching Group