Our minds harbor a powerful voice that critiques, judges and occasionally advises us. Commonly called the “inner critic,” it wields surprising influence over our sense of worth and progress.

On first glance, it appears entirely destructive, hammering us for every flaw. Yet famed psychiatrist and pioneering evolutionary theorist Carl Jung highlighted a more nuanced truth: this voice can steer us ethically if properly managed. Rather than silencing it, we must learn to harness its energies for positive growth.

Central to Jung’s approach is the concept of the “shadow,” which encompasses qualities we deem unacceptable and push into the unconscious. These traits never vanish; instead, they gather force beneath our awareness. Often, the inner critic becomes the mouthpiece of these repressed elements, defending an ideal persona by keeping “undesirable” traits at bay. From Jung’s perspective, the critic’s harshness arises as a self-preserving alarm system: it protects us from moral lapses, social rejection, or failure. Properly directed, this vigilance can encourage self-improvement.

However, when left unchecked, that same critic can morph into a toxic force. Contemporary psychology underscores the dangers of excessive self-criticism, linking it to anxiety and depression. If every misstep feels like confirmation of deep inadequacy, the critic becomes a tyrant. Chronic self-judgment triggers shame, undermines confidence and hampers our desire to try new things. Jung argued that denying or repressing our shadow makes it more dangerous. By refusing to confront our perceived flaws, we feed the critic’s fury.

Yet not all self-criticism is harmful. In moderation, it can drive excellence. Athletes and scholars often rely on a measured inner voice that demands high standards. One extra practice session or revision can transform a mediocre performance into mastery. Within Jung’s framework, channeling the critic’s energy toward conscious self-improvement requires facing our hidden fears rather than fleeing them. The critic then acts like a tough but fair coach, guiding us toward our values instead of tearing down our worth.

Trouble arises, though, when perfectionism intensifies this inner drill sergeant. “All or nothing” thinking — often cited in cognitive-behavioral therapy — recasts each mistake as total failure. Such distorted beliefs generate anxiety and stifle creativity. “Acceptance and commitment” therapy also warns that clinging too tightly to negative judgments can trap us in an unproductive loop. Overly identifying with our critic’s harsh words leaves little room for curiosity and resilience.

Finding equilibrium is key. Jung’s concept of individuation highlights integration over suppression — we do not banish the critic but engage it. This might involve therapy, mindfulness or journaling in dialogue form. By personifying the critic, we can question its motives rather than simply obey it. We learn to discern valid concerns from fear-driven attacks. Over time, these reflective practices loosen the critic’s grip on our self-image.

Enter self-compassion, the antidote to relentless self-judgment. Contrary to popular misunderstandings, compassion toward oneself is neither arrogance nor complacency. Instead, it offers a balanced frame in which we acknowledge flaws without conflating them with personal failure.

Studies by researchers like Kristin Neff show that self-compassion reduces stress, fosters resilience and sustains motivation. From Jung’s viewpoint, it helps us greet our “shadow” with understanding, perceiving negative emotions — like envy or insecurity — not as demons to eradicate but aspects of human complexity. When we are kinder to ourselves, the critic no longer needs to shame us for every imperfection.

A few practical strategies can strengthen this balance. Mindfulness training teaches us to witness critical thoughts without getting swept away. By labeling the critic’s voice as one perspective rather than indisputable fact, we regain the freedom to explore other viewpoints. Journaling can also help, particularly if we write dialogues with the critic to clarify its triggers, intentions, and blind spots. Therapy is another avenue, since professional support can unearth deep-rooted issues fueling self-criticism. Finally, seeking understanding peers or mentors counters the isolation that often magnifies self-judgment.

Our inner critic stands at a psychological crossroads. Handled responsibly, it sharpens our moral compass and spurs progress. Left unmanaged, it becomes a relentless bully draining creativity and joy. Jung’s teachings remind us that acceptance and integration are more effective than repression. Cultivating compassion, mindfulness and a willingness to confront our fears helps us forge a healthier relationship with that critical voice. Befriending the critic transforms it into a discerning guide, freeing us to grow into our fuller, more authentic selves.

Arjun Shah, of Mill Valley, is an engineer. He has practiced Jungian analysis for the last decade.