Dear Lori, Sounds like you are on a positive track. Let me throw something in here. The internal critic is part of your psyche too. You don't want the internal critic brutalizing you with harsh judgments. At the same time, to attempt to ignore your internal criticism can take the form of you being harsh to an aspect of yourself. I prefer to acknowledge the internal criticism, even thank the criticism for giving an opinion, and then follow the plan you've created that is best for you. Thich Nhat Hahn talks about this in his charming way. He says, "Hello my little anger." :) But he doesn't give it power. So consider being kind and considerate to your inner critic. That doesn't mean you have to be obedient. It's a "thank you for sharing," situation. :)