What did you learn about your inner critic's tactics?

It’s helping me face that critic, and I see results after only a few sessions!

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I think it can help verbalize and clarify my feelings in thoughts for me to better understand them

Writing out the inner critics role and influence made it seem less ominous and unpredictable. Realizing there’s an established pattern and reasoning is helpful

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Revelations are happening. And I’m starting to see these patterns of self doubt causing my issues.

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That he’s trying to protect me from painful feelings, but he’s actually just making me feel more isolated

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You have described a conflict between adopting a ‘sex monster’ mentality and your genuine desire for gentle intimacy. It seems that this persona is a way to cope with the pressures and expectations surrounding manhood, possibly stemming from the harsh judgments of your inner critic.
You express that this need to perform or force your manhood creates resistance within you, preventing you from embracing the intimacy you truly want. This highlights a struggle where the desire for authentic connection is overshadowed by fears of not being good enough if you reveal your true self.
Fear of Inadequacy
Your inner critic instills a fear that if you are yourself, you might not meet the standards of what you believe is required in intimate situations. This fear appears to be rooted in past experiences and judgments, leading you to mask your true feelings and desires.
It’s understandable to feel torn between wanting to be genuine and the pressure to conform to certain expectations. This ongoing internal battle seems to create a barrier to experiencing the intimacy and connection you truly seek.

It’s a lot stronger than I am.

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I know my inner critic wrong but it’s voice overpowers mine

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I learned hat I’m not alone in how it is that I feel, which is comforting.

Its clear to me that my inner critic is doing significant damage and is responsible for not being able to achieve my desire to be physically and emotionally connected to my partner during sex

I have learnt that my inner critic is damaging my relationship with myself and my partner. It is also clear that it is stopping me from achieving the emotional and physical connection I crave with my partner during intimacy

I learnt my inner critic can be challenged, and is an actual voice, not just a feeling

That I can push back if I really want to

I had the same thought going into this. What if it doesn’t work? The fear of wasting time in finding the actual solution/root cause.

This is my first day and I have a bit of catching up to do since my plan started last Thursday, but I dragged my feet in getting started and giving this a chance.

It is there to try to protect me from embarrassment, but if I worry less about my performance I can overcome it

I have learned that the asshole in my head is wrecking my and my partner’s life. I have a strong conviction that I want to silence it forever but not sure I really have the understanding and tools necessary to accomplish that

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Writing things down gives a perspective and a goal to see thru the issue. BUT, I know it will take time. And I have to remind myself to take baby steps!

Definitely good to write things down, as it means it’s not just in my head like it is a lot of the time.

It makes me feel better to put them down to paper and get advice. I’m ready to make the change but I need to put in the work

It was great. This was one of the best activities so far. I have learned key behaviours about myself that helps me to connect with my partner, avoid self-criticism and enjoy sex.