Do you believe being hard on yourself keeps you motivated? That self-criticism somehow equals discipline? In this episode, we’re throwing that belief overboard. Because tough self-talk isn’t keeping you on track… it’s dragging you down.

Join me as I walk through how negative self-talk acts like rocks in a wagon or cannonballs in your boat, and what to do instead. You’ll learn how to swap self-criticism for compassion, so you can create more confidence, energy, and clarity—especially in midlife.

🎧 BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL KNOW:

✔ Why self-criticism shuts down motivation, learning, and creativity
✔ The difference between self-discipline and self-compassion
✔ How to stop dragging a wagon full of emotional “rocks” through your life

💡 OMG Moment: Self-criticism doesn’t make you better—it shuts you down.

🛠️ Take Action
Notice your thoughts. When you hear that inner voice criticizing your body, your choices, your progress—pause. Ask yourself, “Would I say this to a friend?” Then reframe it with self-compassion. Every time you do, you’re lifting a weight and making space to move forward.

🌱 Why This Episode Matters
Midlife brings a lot of changes—career shifts, relationship dynamics, aging parents, evolving identity. In the midst of all that, we need more kindness, not less. Speaking to yourself with compassion is not weakness. It’s a strength that helps you stay grounded, focused, and energized for whatever comes next.

👉 Ready to shift your inner dialogue?
Take my Inner Voice Quiz at cherylpfischer.com/innervoicequiz to find out who’s doing the talking in your head—and get your next step to move forward with more ease.

🎯 Want to dive deeper into tools like tapping and affirmations?
Join us in the Midlife Pivot community on Patreon—free all summer at patreon.com/mindyourmidlife.

❤️ If this episode helped you, leave a 5-star rating and review. It helps new midlife women find us—and helps me keep creating content for you.

🎧 Follow the podcast so you don’t miss next week’s conversation about midlife transformation and the limiting beliefs that keep us from stepping into it.

Find all podcast and coaching resources at cherylpfischer.com.

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