“Once we understand that the self-aggression emanating from the inner critic consists mostly of “empty words,” or invalid and exaggerated accusations (the slightest actual misdemeanor is proclaimed a felony), we no longer take the words and accusations to heart. On an inner level, we are now able to neutralize or deflect these accusations. Eventually, the accusations themselves become muted. Before long, the inner critic becomes just a pale shadow of its former self.”