Melanin MeetUps

We gain the power to chart our own path when we destabilize the inner critic. The inner critic can be comprised of a parent, friend, family member, or even society. It takes us from our True Self as it can govern our thoughts, beliefs, and actions.

The critical societal parent is a critical collective voice of society on how one should behave, think, or feel. Shaped by shame-based projections, it can give way to stereotypes that can hurt self-esteem and prevent growth towards our True Self.

The critical societal parent may show up when we do not share our feelings about microaggressive behavior for fear of perpetuating a stereotype, we work hard and burn out to prove our worth on a project or keep quiet on a well-deserved pay raise for fear of being aggressive. These are just a few scenarios that impact our lives.

To counter this, we give ourselves affirmation. We rest when we need to and we no longer take on shame and insecurity that is not ours. If we need to, we reach out to a Melanin MeetUp member as we wear our hair out, smile harder, and realize we’ve always been free despite those who actively seek to impose limitations. Our inner critic in all its forms begins to quiet when we choose ourselves.

This week, I will take time to notice where the critical societal parent shows up in my life.