Listen to Your Inner Critic

By Joanne Guidoccio

I realize this is contrary to all the advice that’s out there. But there is something to be gained by analyzing the selected thoughts of our inner critic and taking action.

How can you distinguish those selected thoughts?

Very simply, take note of all sentences that start with “Someone should…”

Here are some examples:

“Someone should write a letter to the editor about that issue. It’s bugging me.”

“Someone should organize an arts festival that showcases the talents of artists, artisans, musicians, and writers in our county.”

“Someone should put her name forward for an executive position on that board. We need new blood.”

“Someone should design and create clothes that fit and flatter women over fifty.”

“Someone should offer decorating services for seniors, who are moving into assisted living, retirement and nursing homes, or downsizing to a condo.”

“Someone should write a cookbook filled with nutritious, easy-to-prepare recipes for singles and couples on budgets.”

“Someone should run for mayor.”

Once you have identified your favorite “Someone should,” it’s time to…

Take action!

Entering the political arena, assuming an executive role in a non-profit organization, organizing an arts festival, writing a novel…these are all goals that can be accomplished but probably not within the immediate future.

Instead, set move-the-needle steps for the season in which you are in. These small steps will lead to larger ones, and subsequent steps will always be within your grasp

You could start by attending an information meeting, offering to help with an established arts festival, signing up for an online or offline course, joining a local writing group, or listening to a webinar. Don’t worry if certain steps don’t work out. Keep moving forward and course-correct along the way.

Good luck!

 

Where to find Joanne Guidoccio…

Website | Amazon | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | Goodreads | Pinterest

13 Comments Add yours

  1. Good point, Joanne. If we don’t step up and do something, we can’t really complain.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Taking action is key. Thanks for dropping by, Jacquie 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  2. Kathryn Jane says:

    Well said, Joanne! 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks Kathryn! Hope you’re having a great weekend. 🙂

      Like

  3. Hey, Joanne. Great words of encouragement. We can’t just gripe and not do anything about things that bother us. I’ve shared. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. It’s so easy to gripe and wait for someone else to “fix” whatever is troubling us. Thanks for sharing, Marsha! 🙂

      Like

  4. You hit on one of my pet peeves–when people see injustice or wrong around them and virtue signal that “someone should…” Umm, maybe you!

    Or me–absolutely.

    Liked by 1 person

  5. Taking note of our “Someone shoulds” is the first step. Thanks for dropping by, Jacqui 🙂

    Like

  6. Agree totally take action instead of somebody should…

    Like

    1. Good to see you here. Hope you’re having a great weekend. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      1. All good and you.

        Like

  7. Grace Topping says:

    Excellent points, Joanne. People are always looking to others to fill the need they’ve identified. I like your suggestions on how to get a feel for an organization as a first step.

    Like

    1. Hi Grace, Looking outside ourselves for solutions never works. Taking on the mantle of responsibility can be daunting but is necessary for growth. 🙂

      Like

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