Harnessing the Power of the Critical Inner Voice WORKSHEET

© 2009 By Suzan Thompson, Ph.D., LPC

Name: ____________________________ Date: ____________

Informed consent:
• I understand that in this workshop, my confidentiality cannot be completely guaranteed.
• I agree to explore and self-disclose to the degree I believe would be helpful to me and also keep myself safe.
• If at any point I feel uncomfortable with what is being discussed, I understand that I can stop participating.
• I recognize that it’s important that I don’t force myself to go beyond my comfort level.
_________ Initials
First, focus on strengths:
Think of two to three qualities or attributes that are uniquely you and that people seem to recognize immediately upon meeting
you.

Think of two to three qualities or attributes that are uniquely you and that you show to people who have known you
for some time.

Of the above strengths, pick 3 that you will turn to when/if the inner critic becomes loud:

The Situation:
Identify a situation you’re facing where the critical voices are apparent:

Write down what the critical voice is saying:

Explore the Critical Voice(s):
Explore what happens as a result of attending to the presence of this voice. What are the feelings and additional thoughts that
accompany it? Simply remain aware of what the voice is saying. Do not argue with the voice.
Feelings
associated
Additional
Thoughts
Related
Other insights

Role and/or Need the Voice is Giving Expression To:

Identify the role or (unmet) need the voice serves. (Use the list provided to help with this.) Really listen to what the voice is trying to
tell you.
Examples of Needs Examples of Roles/Disowned Voices
Appreciation Freedom; Adventure Confusion Confused Emotionality
Belonging Believed in Fear Sexuality, Nurturance
Challenge Creativity sensuality, lust
Competence Love Guilt, Pride Sadness Needed
For protection Safety Judge Vulnerable Child Coach
Power Expression Perfectionist Insecure Anger,
Security Acceptance Irritability
Support Connection/Community Pusher Fun Lover Control
To be heard Respect/Respected Resentment, envy Sloth Noticed
Understood Valued Responsibility Inner Critic Protector

These are some possible roles or needs the voice is representing:

(If you can’t identify a need, then the default would be for safety or protection.)

What do you think the voice is really trying to tell you now? Identify the possible positive message of the voice.

Shifting Awareness
Thank that voice for drawing your attention to your need(s). Remembering your strengths and from a place of Conscious,
Compassionate Awareness…Enlist its assistance with generating ideas for making sure the role or need is met in a healthier manner.

Next Step
What’s your next step? (As you review the situation that involves the critical voice, what will you do differently?)