The Hidden Impact of Self-Judgment on Your Career

Part 1: “The Hidden Impact of Self-Judgment on Your Career”

The Voice Holding You Back

Have you ever felt that inner critic’s voice holding you back from the success you know you’re capable of?

You’re not alone. High-achievers everywhere struggle with this inner critic—a horrible voice of self-judgment that can impact everything from career advancement to self-confidence.

I’ve worked over the last 5 years with many professionals to overcome this very challenge. Today, I'll explore how self-judgment affects careers in ways that are often hard to see and how it might be the hidden force limiting your success.

The Cost of Self-Judgment in Your Career

It’s easy to believe that a high-performing career depends on listening to our inner critic. After all, isn’t this voice supposed to keep us on track, pushing us to do better?

Unfortunately, that’s often not the case. When it’s unchecked, self-judgment (although it may help you hit that goal) creates unseen barriers that prevent real growth, cause internal (and sometimes external) stress, and actually increase dissatisfaction at work.

Self-judgment can look like overworking, constantly second-guessing your achievements, or shrinking back from big opportunities because of that nagging doubt: “What if I’m just not good enough?” These doubts create invisible and sometimes unconscious boundaries around us, reinforcing a sense of career stagnation and keeping us from reaching our true potential.

Overcoming Self-Judgment at Work

To break the cycle, start with awareness. Here are some strategies that have worked for me and my clients to begin releasing self-judgment:

Identify Triggers: Notice when self-judgment arises at work. Is it during high-stakes meetings, after completing projects, or when comparing yourself to others? Recognising these triggers gives you insight into the moments when you may be unnecessarily hard on yourself.

Reframe Criticism as Curiosity: Instead of treating the inner critic as the judge, try reframing these thoughts as moments of curiosity. For instance, if you find yourself thinking, “I’m not good enough for this project,” ask, “What skill or strength would help me feel prepared?” With curiosity comes the chance for growth rather than self-doubt.

Balance Strengths and Weaknesses: Our strengths can carry hidden challenges, just as weaknesses may hold hidden advantages. By recognising both sides, you’re better equipped to approach your work with self-compassion and the confidence that you have value to offer.

Moving Beyond Your Limiting Beliefs

Acknowledging and addressing self-judgment isn’t about ignoring challenges; it’s about working with them to build a healthier mindset for long-term, sustainable success and mental well-being (across all areas of life!).