Transforming the Inner Critic: From Judgement to Guidance

​“Whether you are continuing along the same path or at the beginning of something new, you can always start afresh in your mind, heart, openness and attitude.” –  Rasheed Ogunlaru 

The inner critic is a universal part of the human psyche, one that we all have. That inner voice scrutinizes, judges, and undermines us, telling us we are not good or worthy enough.  

While it can feel harsh and relentless, this inner voice is not inherently malevolent. We can deepen our understanding of this inner dynamic and cultivate a more compassionate relationship with ourselves.

Where Does the Inner Critic Come From?

The origins of the inner critic are deeply rooted in our early experiences and are further illuminated by Saturn’s archetypal energy. Saturn, often called the “Lord of Karma” in astrology, symbolizes structure, boundaries, and the trials necessary for growth. Understanding the Saturnian influence on the inner critic offers a rich, symbolic layer to its origins.

So much of our inner critic comes from our early childhood experiences when we were highly attuned to the approval and disapproval of caregivers, teachers, and peers. The inner critic emerges as an internalized voice of authority, mimicking the feedback we receive. Saturn’s influence can be seen here as the “tough teacher,” setting limits and enforcing discipline, often to ensure survival and adaptation to societal expectations.

In analytical psychology, we call it the shadow.  This is where all the parts of ourselves are suppressed or disowned because they are deemed unacceptable. Saturn’s shadow manifests as fear, self-doubt, and rigidity—the very traits the inner critic often embodies to protect us from perceived failure or shame.

From a Voice Dialogue perspective, the inner critic is part of a larger self-system that seeks to protect us. Saturn’s role as a guardian of boundaries aligns with this protective function. While the critic may use harsh methods, its ultimate goal is to prepare us for life’s challenges and help us grow stronger.

Common Themes 

The inner critic often speaks in a harsh, judgmental, and absolutist voice. However, its tone and content can vary based on individual experiences and cultural influences. Saturn’s archetypal energy amplifies the critic’s voice, often sounding like an unyielding taskmaster or a fearful parent.

• Perfectionism: “You’re not good enough unless you do it perfectly.”
• Comparison: “Why can’t you be more like them?”
• Catastrophizing: “If you fail, everyone will think you’re a fraud.”
• Shame and Guilt: “How could you make such a stupid mistake?”

Sometimes, the inner critic is not overtly hostile but subtly undermining. For example, it may disguise itself as pragmatism: “You shouldn’t even try because it’s too risky.” Saturn’s cautious nature can fuel this perspective, urging restraint in the face of uncertainty.

It was created to keep us safe and protected.

How Do We Work With the Inner Critic?

The goal is not to silence the inner critic but to understand and integrate it as part of our psyche. 

We need to develop awareness.  Begin by noticing when the inner critic arises, what situations trigger it, the specific words it uses, and the emotions it evokes. Journaling can be a helpful practice to document these observations. Saturn invites us to take a disciplined and honest approach to this self-reflection.

The inner critic’s voice has an uncanny resemblance to an early authority figure, like a parent, teacher, or societal norm. Understanding its origins can help you separate its voice from your authentic self.

Jung taught us that separating the ego from this part of ourselves can help us recognize that it is not us but an early part of ourselves that needs self-love and compassion.  

Voice Dialogue encourages us to engage directly with the inner critic as though it were a separate entity. You might say, “Inner Critic, I hear you. What are you trying to protect me from?” This creates space for curiosity and understanding.

Jungian shadow work involves acknowledging and integrating the parts of ourselves we disowned. By befriending these aspects, we reduce the inner critic’s power to shame or control us. Saturn’s shadow work encourages us to confront our fears and limitations courageously.

We must also understand that our flaws or mistakes do not define us. The more you accept yourself as a complex, multifaceted being, the less influence the inner critic will have.

Remembering that Saturn became the God of Agriculture, he planted seeds and demonstrated patience as he watched what he planted grow.  Saturn moves from the negative father to a blend of nurturance and cultivation in this incarnation. In this way, we can reframe Saturn as a wise mentor rather than a harsh taskmaster. 

When you ask yourself, “What lesson is this inner critic trying to teach me?” this perspective transforms its rigidity into wisdom.

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