Awareness Quote by Jan Chozen Bays
“Except that it’s not really 'now' that the inner critic attacks. It’s a few seconds or a minute ago. The inner critic depends upon comparison, and when we are fully aware in the present moment, when there is no past or future in our mind’s awareness, there is nothing to compare. There is only what is, as it is. The inner critic disappears.”
About This Quote
Source Talk: Mindfulness Teaching, Jan Chozen Bays, 2015
The inner critic attacks past moments; present‑moment awareness removes comparison, silencing the critic.
In simple terms: Being fully present stops self‑judgment.
Practice mindfulness to quiet self‑criticism.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- daily meditation
- stressful work
- public speaking
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you anchor yourself in the now?
- What triggers your inner critic?
If thoughts linger, the critic may resurface despite awareness.