Goodman's article "Calming the Inner Critic and Getting to Work" was very interesting. I have to agree with Goodman on many of her points. Even though Goodmans spoke in article about writing books I think this thought and mind set can be transferred to other things. Having your inner critic changes your mind about doing a lot of things because you do not know the outcome. Example, if you are trying to run in an election for an office seat in an organization you might think what if my views on certain things aren't what others see? What if you I do it and no one supports me or I do something wrong?
If you never go for it you'll never know the outcome. I believe the fear of the unknown brings our inner critic to us. If you always have the inner critics fear consumes you, and you'll never go as far as you want. Also, if you always compare yourself to someone you think is better you're already in the inner critics grasp. You should never have to look up to any one, you should one have inspiration for someone. If you can push and not let your inner critic get to you, maybe one day someone will look up to you for inspiration.
I couldn't have said this better myself, Aaron. I especially like the part where you say " if you always compare yourself to someone you think is better you're already in the inner critics grasp." Because I think you're right: there are varying degrees of being engulfed by the critic, right? I tend to think that writer's block is when people get totally under the thumb of the inner critic. If we notice, the critics outside us have no power until they are inside our heads. Part of what I hope to see you all exercise this semester is sticking up for your ideas, to each other and to me. Nothing is more fun than a good old fashioned academic debate!
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