Settle for Less Internalization

Internalization, as defined by the American Psychological Association, is

“the nonconscious mental process by which the characteristics, beliefs, feelings, or attitudes of other individuals or groups are assimilated into the self and adopted as one’s own.”

For example, when someone makes a comment and we start questioning our worth, we are experiencing internalization. This inward turning of feelings can be damaging because it can fuel a negative inner voice that destroys our mental health and blocks us from happiness, growth, and self-confidence.

Choose to settle for less internalization by externally evaluating criticism rather than accepting it as truth.

• Consider the source. Is this someone you trust?

• Examine the content. Is there something constructive you can learn from it?

• Evaluate the tone. Is the message judgmental?

When reflection reveals that the criticism is destructive, let it go, and ask yourself: Is this relationship healthy for me?

When we stop internalizing harmful messages, we free our minds to help build us up.

Settle for less internalization so you can step into a future where your self-worth comes from within, not from random voices around you.