If you answered “my boss,” “my ex,” or “that rude cashier,” think again. For most of us, the harshest criticism, the loudest doubts, and the cruelest judgments come from one place: the mirror.
The next time you hear that cruel voice in your head, don’t argue with it. Simply say: “I hear you, but I don’t have to believe you.”
One of Cardalda’s core arguments is that perfectionism is not a virtue; it is a cage. It is the number one tool your inner enemy uses to paralyze you.
But the good news? You can lay down your weapons. Here is how to stop sabotaging yourself and finally become your own best ally.
According to Cardalda, we don’t start life as our own enemy. We learn it. We internalize the voices of strict parents, demanding teachers, or a society that sells perfection.
As Alba Cardalda beautifully puts it: The relationship you have with yourself is the longest relationship of your life. It is time to make it a kind one.
We wake up and tell ourselves we aren’t good enough. We work late and tell ourselves we don’t deserve a break. We make a mistake and call ourselves stupid.