Hello, my Mental Health Queens, let’s talk about getting in the game.

Even the phrase makes me feel a little anxious. It’s the idea of pushing beyond your boundaries, making the most out of every day, and being able to make short-term sacrifices for long-term results. It’s an ideal way to live! Who doesn’t want to get there? It’s difficult but always worth it. It’s common for many of my clients to look at people following these lifestyles and wonder why they aren’t able to.

The reality is that it is much more complicated than simply “committing” to a coaching program. Whatever that program is! We see people post on social media, but we all know there’s more to that. They’re showing the highlight reel, not the real struggle. I’m sure you’re shaking your head thinking, “People are in the game, it isn’t impossible. So why are others struggling?”

I’ll tell you. The missing piece is overcoming mental health struggles that come with change—specifically your inner critic. For many, change is complicated to overcome. That’s why it’s important to receive therapy before considering major life changes.

Think of it this way. You want to get in the game, but without overcoming trauma, anxiety, or depression, you’re an injured player asking to get out there. See how that doesn’t make sense?

If you’re looking to get into the game and truly unleash your potential, you need to truly understand yourself. Identify how you hold yourself back and why you do it. No one is immune to this. In fact, many of us are built to have a ruthless inner critic that exists to keep us safe in our comfort zones… and with a victim mindset.

Next time you’re trying to level up, think about how you can best support yourself. What do you need to do to keep yourself focused? How can you be your own hero? That’s how you can prepare yourself for the game.

Until next time!

The Inner Critic Therapist,

Cheron