Silencing Your Inner Gremlin: How to Overcome Self-Doubt and Move Forward
- Jenna Guerra
- Jan 29
- 2 min read
Everyone has an inner critic—or “gremlin”—that voices unhelpful opinions at various points in life. This critical voice is often the loudest when facing situations where failure feels possible, such as making healthy lifestyle changes. While self-reflection can be valuable, an unchecked inner gremlin can hold you back from growth and success.
Let’s explore how to recognize when your inner critic is speaking and, more importantly, how to silence its negativity so you can move forward with confidence.
What does your inner gremlin sound like?
Your inner gremlin thrives on negativity, often showing up as:
Discouraging thoughts that tell you why failure is inevitable
Memories of past setbacks that convince you history will repeat itself
Lists of weaknesses that make change feel impossible
While learning from past experiences is helpful, dwelling on failures or maintaining a fixed mindset (e.g., “It didn’t work before, so it never will”) can prevent you from making real progress.
So how can you tell the difference between irrational self-criticism and helpful self-awareness? Try using the HALT quiz by asking yourself:👉 Am I Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired?
If you answer “yes” to any of these, your inner gremlin may simply be reacting to unmet basic needs rather than providing valuable insight.
How to Silence Your Inner Gremlin
Follow these five "R"s to quiet your inner critic and regain control:
1️⃣ Recognize that your inner critic is speaking—these thoughts are not absolute truths.
2️⃣ Refute the negative messages by reminding yourself they are not purely accurate.
3️⃣ Remove self-sabotaging thoughts by dismissing them rather than engaging with them.
4️⃣ Regain confidence by focusing on past successes and your strengths.
5️⃣ Return to the present moment with a clear, positive mindset to choose your next steps.
Notice that none of these steps involve arguing with your gremlin. Trying to debate or reason with negative thoughts often gives them more power. Instead, your best strategy is to dismiss them altogether and replace them with a more balanced, constructive perspective.
If You’re Struggling to Silence the Critic
Be patient with yourself—especially if negative self-talk has been a long-term habit. Many people live with their inner gremlin for years without realizing they can quiet it. Recognizing its voice is the first step toward meaningful and lasting change.
If you’ve addressed your HALT needs and worked through the five "R"s but still struggle with self-doubt, consider reaching out to your support system or a Certified Health and Wellness Coach. A coach can help you:
✔ Identify and utilize your strengths
✔ Develop a more positive and realistic mindset
✔ Build confidence in your ability to achieve your goals
Dwelling on past mistakes or fearing the future won’t move you forward—but shifting your mindset and believing in yourself can. Schedule a free discovery call today to learn how Health and Wellness Coaching can help you replace self-doubt with confidence and possibility.
You got this!
-Jenna
Source: Arloski, M. (2014). Wellness coaching for lasting lifestyle change.
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