Self-critical
Adjective; characterized by an inclination to evaluate oneself unfavorably or harshly. A self-critical individual tends to focus on their perceived flaws and shortcomings rather than their strengths or achievements, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem. This tendency can affect one's mental health and overall perspective on personal capabilities.
Self-critical meaning with examples
- After receiving constructive feedback, Maria became self-critical, analyzing every decision she made. She couldn't help but dwell on her mistakes, thinking about how she could have done better, even though her peers praised her efforts. This overanalysis often left her feeling disheartened, despite the positive reinforcement she received from others.
- During therapy, James learned that being self-critical stemmed from his childhood experiences where he was often compared to his older brother. As he navigated these feelings, he realized that his harsh self-judgment was not only unproductive but also damaging to his self-esteem, impacting his ability to appreciate his personal achievements.
- Clara's self-critical nature reared its head when she submitted her artwork to a competition. Instead of celebrating her creativity, she spent hours scrutinizing her piece, convinced it wasn't good enough to win. Her self-critical thoughts clouded her perception and prevented her from enjoying the process and recognizing her talents.
- In her journal, Amy wrote about her self-critical tendencies after failing to meet a personal goal. She reflected on how her harsh judgments were hindering her growth and ability to strive for her aspirations. By acknowledging this pattern, she aimed to cultivate a more compassionate and forgiving perspective towards herself.
