You might be familiar with your Inner Critic—the voice that says you’re not good enough. Or compares yourself to others. Or expects nothing but perfection. Our instinct is to push that voice away. But, paradoxically, we can find more inner peace and free up creative energy by moving toward that voice, with curiosity and compassion. The first part of this workshop will cover the roots and purpose of the Inner Critic and how it affects writers, both novices and veterans. Through lecture, discussion, and written exercises, we’ll look at seven types of Inner Critics, including the Perfectionist, the Task Master, and the Guilt Tripper. Finally, you’ll learn and practice specific skills and strategies for managing your Inner Critic so that you can move happily forward in your writing and artistic life.