Are You Your Own Worst Critic? Let’s Change That.

As a working woman or mum juggling career and family, do you ever feel like nothing you do is ever enough? Work deadlines pile up, the kids need you, and the endless to-do list keeps growing. But what makes it even harder? The harsh inner voice that tells you you’re failing. This self-criticism, also known as negative self-talk, fuels stress, mum guilt, and burnout. But here is the good news: you can break free. With self-compassion, you can shift your mindset and create a healthier balance between work and life.

Why Working Women and Mums Struggle with Self-Criticism and Burnout

As women, we are conditioned to fulfill so many roles and do them all perfectly. Many of us believe that being hard on ourselves will make us better parents, employees, or partners. But in reality, self-criticism often does more harm than good.

The Cost of Negative Self-Talk:

• Increases stress & burnout – That constant pressure to “do it all” can leave you emotionally drained.
• Creates guilt, especially for mums – You feel guilty when you are working and guilty when you are not.
• Leads to self-doubt – Instead of feeling proud of your achievements, you focus on what you didn’t do.

But what if there was a different way? What if, instead of beating yourself up, you showed yourself the same kindness you offer everyone else? That’s where self-compassion comes in.

How to Stop Negative Self-Talk and Build Self-Compassion

Shifting from self-criticism to self-compassion isn’t about making excuses—it is about treating yourself with kindness and understanding. Here are five ways to start:

1. Talk to Yourself Like You would Talk to a Person You Love and Care About

Would you tell your best friend she’s failing and she is stupid? No. So why say it to yourself? Next time you catch a negative thought, reframe it:

❌ “I should be doing more.”

✅ “I’m doing my best, and that is enough.”

2. Recognise That Struggle is Normal

No one has it all figured out. Every working woman faces challenges, whether she’s a mum or not. You are not alone in this; struggling doesn’t mean you are failing—it means you are human.

3. Give Yourself Permission to Rest

Self-care isn’t selfish, it is a necessity. Taking a break doesn’t mean you are lazy; it means you are recharging so you can show up as your best self, and also better care for others.

4. Celebrate Small Wins

At the end of each day, instead of focusing on what you didn’t do, list three things you did do. Even small things count!

✅ Managed to handle the day’s challenges

✅ Answered an important email

✅ Took five minutes for yourself

5. Surround Yourself with Support

You don’t have to do this alone. Connect with other working women and mums who understand your struggles and can remind you that you are enough.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve Your Own Kindness

Breaking free from self-criticism doesn’t mean ignoring your responsibilities—it means embracing self-compassion so you can thrive. You are not only a working woman or mum. You are a whole person, worthy of love, kindness, respect and rest.

Ready to Let Go of Mum Guilt and Step Into Confidence?

Join my free community for professional women to overcome self-criticism and burnout. Let’s support each other—because you don’t have to do this alone. Click here to join!