How to Shut Up Your Inner Critic Before She Wrecks Everything

In this vulnerable (and slightly chaotic) bonus episode, Michelle sits down with a strong cup of Yorkshire Gold and a strong dose of honesty to unpack the emotional rollercoaster of running a creative business.

Fresh off a weekend filled with big wins — interviewing dream guests and learning to surf — she finds herself midweek questioning: “Is this even working?”

Michelle dives into:

• Why we crash emotionally even after big highs
• The science behind those sneaky imposter syndrome spirals
• Emotional regulation tools you can actually use
• And a solid dose of tough love for anyone currently riding their own wave of doubt.

If you ever swing from “I’ve got this!” to “I should just quit” in the same 48 hours — this one’s for you.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Your brain is wired for survival, not happiness — negativity bias makes us focus on what’s not working, even after wins.
• Success can trigger imposter syndrome — your amygdala sees “new and unfamiliar” as potential danger.
• Feelings aren’t facts — your mood on a Wednesday doesn’t mean you’re failing.
• Reframe your thinking — flip “this isn’t working” into “this is part of learning.”
• Breathe and break the rumination loop — physically disrupt spirals with movement or simple tasks.
• Talk to yourself like a friend — third-person self-talk creates emotional distance.
• Keep a “wins list” — hard evidence to counteract the inner critic.
• Small actions build momentum — doing something beats sitting in paralysis.

⏱ Timestamps:

0:00:00 – Opening: The vulnerable moment that sparked this episode

0:01:04 – The weekend wins: dream podcast guests & surfing for the YouTube series

0:02:57 – The midweek slump: “What am I even doing?”

0:05:32 – The impulsive “I quit” reflex — emotional regulation becomes crucial

0:06:06 – Meditation, mindfulness & learning to ride the emotional waves

0:06:38 – Research findings: actionable emotional regulation tools

0:07:18 – Reframing negative thoughts

0:08:17 – Breaking the rumination loop

0:08:42 – Self-talk: third-person pep talks

0:09:42 – Small actions beat paralysis

0:10:15 – Reflecting on the surfing dare and upcoming shooting challenge

0:11:38 – Quick reminder to subscribe, shop, and support the podcast

0:12:07 – Closing pep talk for anyone feeling the same emotional swings 💥 Want More? Get Exclusive Bonus Episodes!

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