Listening to the Inner Guide

For many of us, the loudest voices inside are not the wisest ones. They’re the parts of us that learned long ago how to keep us safe — by warning, judging, or pushing us harder. These parts are not “bad”; they’re simply young and stuck in their old strategies.

Internal Family Systems (IFS) has a radical and compassionate way of looking at this: there are no bad parts. Even our harshest inner critic is only trying to protect us. But when these younger parts are left in charge, we can end up living from fear, self-doubt, or perfectionism.

What makes the difference is remembering that we also have access to another voice within — the one I call the Inner Guide. This part of us isn’t a manager, a critic, or a child carrying old pain. It’s the steady, calm, and clear presence that knows our worth and can hold all the other parts with compassion.

The Buddha once said, “You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” 

To me, this points directly to the Inner Guide. Only we can offer ourselves the kind of steady love and trust that no achievement or external approval can provide.

That’s why I created this resource: From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust: The Inner Guide Worksheet. It’s a simple five-minute reflection that helps you pause and meet that steady voice within. You can try it on its own, or sign up for my newsletter and also receive a guided audio that walks you through the practice.

And speaking of the newsletter — this is more than a download link. Each month I’ll share reflections, tools, and encouragement, so you don’t feel like you’re figuring all of this out on your own. Self-trust grows in community, and I want this to be a space where you feel supported.

If you’d like to begin, you can find the worksheet on my Resources page. And if you’re ready for regular support, I’d love to welcome you into my newsletter community.