Lately, my inner critic has been louder than I’d like to admit. It whispers things that cut deep, especially on the days when I’m already tired or stretched thin. It tells me: - “You should be further along by now.”As if my journey hasn’t already taken incredible strength just to keep going. - “You’re failing, even when you’re trying your best.”As if effort, resilience, and survival don’t count. - “You’re not enough for the life you want.”As though worth is something earned instead of something I already carry within me. - “You’re too much — your emotions, your needs, your story.”As if needing care or understanding is something to apologize for. - “No one sees how hard you’re fighting, so maybe it doesn’t matter.”As though being unseen means being unworthy. These are the voices that echo from old wounds, old expectations, and old pain — not the truth of who I am. They come from a place of fear, not from a place of wisdom. And even when they feel heavy or convincing, I’m learning to notice them, breathe through them, and gently remind myself: My healing is not a race. My worth is not conditional. And I am growing, even on the days it feels like I’m standing still.