Stop Being the Bully in Your Own Life

By Patty Roe, Founder of PS Society

We often think of bullies as those harsh, critical voices around us—like that judgmental relative at Thanksgiving or the internet troll who clearly has too much free time—but have you ever considered the loudest bully might actually be living rent-free in your own head? It's true! We are often our harshest critics, internalizing negativity from others and turning it into an endless highlight reel of self-doubt.

Think about those lovely little pep talks you frequently give yourself:

• "I'm too fat."

• "I should have started long ago."

• "I'm too late."

• "I'm not enough."

• "I'm too much."

Ring a bell? Each of these self-critical thoughts is basically emotional bullying—and spoiler alert: none of them are true!

Sure, the opinions of others can sometimes feel as unavoidable as holiday fruitcake, but remember: their perspectives are not your reality. By accepting someone else's criticism as your truth, you're giving negativity way too much power (and let's face it, negativity is overrated). Instead, challenge yourself to quiet those harsh internal voices and replace them with some much-needed self-love. Become your own hype person!

Stop Being the Bully in Your Own Life

Start trusting yourself. Set small, achievable goals and keep those promises like they’re your favorite binge-worthy TV show. Say you'll go for a walk—and actually lace up those shoes. Decide to read that book you've been "meaning to get to" for months—and finally crack open page one. Plan to meet up with that friend who makes you laugh until your stomach hurts—and don't bail! With each promise kept, you'll feel stronger, more empowered, and probably a little amazed at how awesome you are.

Swapping out that internal bully for kindness and patience can transform your life faster than coffee transforms Monday mornings. Talk to yourself the way you’d talk to your best friend:

• "You can totally do this."

• "You’re perfect for this very moment."

• "Late? Ha! It’s never too late."

And please, don’t waste your precious energy blaming others for their negativity—they clearly don't know what they're missing. Let their words slide right off because you're smarter than that. You are a strong, capable woman who fully understands her own worth. Remember, you were made with love, intention, and an extra sprinkle of fabulousness.

It's time to evict that bully in your mind and start rooting for yourself. Be kind, be patient, and become your own biggest fan.

Trust me, you deserve nothing less.