Recognising the inner critic
It sounds like: "You always mess up", "Everyone is better than you", "Why even try?"
Answering it
- Notice the thought.
- Question it: is this completely true?
- Reframe: "I made a mistake this time, and I can learn from it."
Building self-esteem
- Keep a record of small wins.
- Set achievable goals and meet them.
- Spend time with people who are supportive and honest.
When to seek help
If negative thoughts are persistent or overwhelming, speak to a qualified counsellor or doctor. In India, the government's Tele-MANAS helpline is available on 14416.
Deciding whether it fits you
A field can look exciting from the outside and still be a poor fit. Before committing, talk to two or three people already doing the work, try a short course or project, and notice whether the day-to-day tasks energise or drain you. A structured conversation with a mentor can help you compare options against your interests, abilities and values rather than trends alone.