The Inner Voice That's Holding You Back


The Inner Voice That's Holding You Back

Eric Lindsay
Aptitude Leadership Coaching

You set high standards for yourself, but instead of feeling motivated, you feel stuck. The voice in your head says, You should have done better. You’re not good enough. You’ll never get it right.

I know this feeling all too well. Early in my career, I constantly second-guessed myself, especially when stepping into leadership roles. I’d walk into meetings thinking, Am I really the right person for this? What if they find out I don’t know enough? Instead of celebrating my progress, I fixated on every flaw and every moment I could have done better.

Self-criticism isn’t making you better...it’s making you less effective, more stressed, and more likely to give up.

What if you could silence your inner critic and replace it with a mindset that actually helped you grow?

The harsh truth? Self-criticism doesn’t just hurt your confidence—it keeps you from finding real solutions. Instead of learning from mistakes, you spiral into doubt. Instead of trying again, you hesitate. Over time, this mindset steals your ability to lead, create, and thrive.

For me, this pattern became exhausting. I would prepare for meetings, put in the work, and still walk away feeling like I had to prove myself all over again. It didn’t matter how much I accomplished...my inner voice always had something negative to say.

If you let self-criticism win, it won’t just affect your work, it will shape your entire life. It will make challenges feel impossible, keep you from stepping into new opportunities, and convince you that you’re not enough. But if you shift your mindset, you can take control.

I had to make a change...and now, I help others do the same.

I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to feel like an imposter in rooms where you belong. That’s why I coach people like you, because I know that self-doubt isn’t a reflection of your ability, it’s just an unhelpful story you’ve been telling yourself.

And here’s the truth: That story can change.

In my coaching, I help people overcome self-criticism by focusing on three things:

  • Recognizing your imposter voice
  • Leveraging your strengths
  • Developing a growth mindset

You learn to spot self-doubt before it takes over. You start seeing your strengths clearly and using them to your advantage. Instead of fearing mistakes, you begin viewing them as opportunities to learn and grow.

If this resonates, let’s talk. I’d love to help you break free from self-doubt.

Imagine walking into your next big challenge with confidence. Instead of doubting yourself, you trust your ability to figure things out. Instead of being paralyzed by mistakes, you learn and move forward. That’s what happens when you stop letting your inner critic run the show.

Self-criticism isn’t helping you...it’s holding you back. But you can change the story.

In my 12-week program, I’ll provide you with the clarity, tools, and confidence to break free from self-criticism and step into your true potential.

Click learn more to take the next step.

Best,
Eric Lindsay
Owner & Coach
Aptitude Leadership Coaching


Unsubscribe · Preferences

Aptitude Leadership Coaching

Subscribe to my weekly newsletter and discover how to embrace your strengths, build confidence, and create a life where you truly belong.

Read more from Aptitude Leadership Coaching

Just. Be. Salt. I had the incredible opportunity to attend this year's Global Leadership Summit. At the summit, John Maxwell reminded us that as leaders, we’re called to be the salt in the world. Just as salt enhances flavor and preserves, we are meant to enrich and preserve the lives around us. Being salt isn’t about being loud or forcing change. It’s about adding value through small, intentional actions...whether that’s encouraging someone who needs it or standing firm in your values. Salt...

FREE CLARITY ASSESSMENT! Feeling stuck or just ready for more? Hi friends, Over the years, I’ve coached a lot of people, including students, professionals, and rising leaders...and one thing keeps showing up: Some feel stuck.Some feel lost.And some are doing just fine, but know they’re built for more. More clarity.More alignment.More purpose and energy in how they live and work. That’s why I created my free Clarity Assessment. It’s a quick 5-minute reflection followed by a one-on-one call...

New Beginnings - New Coaching Hello Friend, It’s been a while, and I’m so excited to share what’s new. Over the past few months, I’ve stepped into a new role in healthcare entrepreneurship, building partnerships that help people live healthier, more whole lives. This new chapter has deepened my belief that real growth starts when we understand ourselves — and move forward from that place of self-awareness. That’s also why I’ve reimagined my coaching practice. I want it to be more accessible,...