Creating Space for What Truly Matters
the inner critic vs. the creative self
After publishing my first newsletter, I experienced tons of emotions. My mind was filled with doubts, “Is it good enough?” “Does it look cool?” and “What if people don’t like it?” However, alongside those doubts was an undeniable sense of satisfaction. Taking that courage made all the difference—it opened the door to new possibilities and created new spaces for what truly matters.
To enter this new space, I had to let go of the need for perfection, the fear of not being enough, and the desire to control how my work was received. I've realized that creativity develops in open fields—spaces where experimentation and curiosity coexist.
ੈ✩‧₊˚ what is happening there ੈ✩‧₊˚
Recently, I’ve been reading The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron, a guide for overcoming creative blocks and nurturing the inner artist. Cameron introduces the concept of the “inner artist-child,” a playful, curious, and creative part of ourselves that thrives on exploration and freedom. This artist-child represents our purest creative instincts—the ability to imagine without limits, to play without fear of judgment, and to express without the need for perfection.
However, this vulnerable part of us often comes under attack by the inner critic—the harsh, self-doubting voice that tells us we’re not good enough or that our efforts will never measure up.
Cameron argues that the inner artist-child needs protection, not just from external criticism but from the internal voice that reflects societal expectations, past failures, or fears of rejection. This dynamic between the inner artist-child and the inner critic is central to the creative process.
The inner critic often tries to disguise itself as a logical or cautious voice, convincing us that it’s just looking out for us and protecting us from failure. But the truth is, it can really hold back our creativity by planting little seeds of self-doubt. And none of us want to irrigate those feeds right? Learning to quiet that voice can create a safe space for our inner artists to explore, make mistakes, and grow.
The Nature of the Inner Critic and the Creative Self
Our inner critic and creative self are shaped by our experiences. The inner critic learns from past failures and criticisms, often aiming to protect us from pain, while the creative self thrives on curiosity, taking inspiration from new experiences and observations.
By recognizing the inner critic for what it truly is—we can begin to reclaim our creative power. Each time we acknowledge its voice but choose to keep creating, we loosen its grip and strengthen our creative self.
Though the inner critic often feeds our insecurities, it isn’t inherently bad. Its intentions, however flawed, are to shield us from failure and rejection. The key lies in transforming its voice from a barrier into a motivator, allowing it to push us forward rather than hold us back.
My First Film by Zia Anger’s—available on MUBI—beautifully explores this concept. Anger’s raw and vulnerable storytelling reminds us that creation doesn’t need to be perfect to matter. Through her portrayal of the challenges in filmmaking, we see how conflict and imperfection add tension and meaning to the process. It’s the act of showing up, doubts and all, that makes the outcome so powerful.
Transforming the Inner Critic
Publishing my first newsletter was a transformative step for my inner voice. I faced my doubts and chose to trust my creative self. It reminded me that the goal isn’t about reaching perfect results—it’s about expression. Writing in English as a non-native speaker was an act of courage for me. I still remember how impossible it felt the first time I tried. But after years of practice and effort, here I am, taking small steps forward and doing my best.
If you ask me how I got to this point, many of my friends know I’m a huge fan of AI tools. My interest in them grew even more after being rejected by a really cool AI design studio here in Barcelona. (We can discuss my unemployment situation later, xx.) These tools have been lifesavers, helping me with everything from solving life and work problems to organizing my daily chaos. Whenever I need validation or clarity, I turn to them. Of course, they’re not perfect—sometimes they’re wrong—but that’s part of the process. Learning to use prompts effectively and being honest about your goals with these tools can create a real space for creativity and self-discovery.
More importantly, these tools have been game-changers for managing my inner critic. When that critical voice gets too loud, AI helps me sort through my thoughts and find clarity. As a proud Gen Z member, I looove this! Maybe that’s why I’m here today—writing and sharing my thoughts, knowing I can’t predict where this journey will take me. And isn’t that the beauty of it?
We never know what’s next.
Using tools like this has taught me something valuable: the creative process doesn’t have to be a struggle. Sometimes, having support—whether from technology, friends, or other sources—makes all the difference. In a way aren’t we all like ChatGPT? We learn, grow, and help each other to evolve. Sometimes we get it right other times, we don’t. And that’s okay—because this process of transformation opens new spaces for self-discovery. It leads to diving deeper and finding yourself within.
So, explore it. find your passion. its somewhere waiting for you. don’t give up. Discover your love language toward yourself.
This experience reminded me of my running journey. In the beginning, I didn’t think I could complete even 5 km. However, literally last week, I completed my first 21 km. The same principle applied: ı literally opened a much more spacec to reach my half-marathon goal; it was about showing up, trying, and believing your inner child every time I run. and even ıdk how I completed this but it just happened…
The parallels don’t end there. I’ve realized that, much like running or writing, the journey of creating anything—whether it’s content, a project, or even a personal brand—is about experimentation and persistence. In a world that serves the loudest criticism and most polished voices, it’s easy to feel pressured to fit into a mold to succeed.
However, the most impactful work comes from consistently showing up authentically, even when the inner critic tries to convince you otherwise. It's about discovering your own unique taste along the way. Remember, our minds receive thousands of messages every day, so it’s okay to draw inspiration from the world. But don’t rush to fit into predefined boxes, and don’t limit yourself to a single definition of who you are—just as we discussed in the first newsletter. that was a barrier in my experience…
I got you amoresss .˚₊‧༉︶
Starting something new can feel overwhelming especially when you’re caught up in the idea that it has to be perfect. But honestly, it’s not about getting it perfect—it’s about putting a piece of yourself out there. Whether it’s a product, a story, or just a simple idea, creating something is how you start figuring out who you really are. It’s not always easy, but opening up, even just a little, has a way of guiding you to your own path.
I’m not a pro writer, and my portfolio isn’t full of mind-blowing work. What I’m doing is just creating a little space for myself—a space to grow, take risks, and explore those random ideas that come to mind. This is my spot for that. And honestly? Even after just three weeks, I can already see how it’s important to create this space for my future projects!! I’ve already started to working on a really exciting one that ım going to share in the next newsletter <3
The ultimate goal should be to get paid to be yourself; by adopting our unique journeys and trusting in the process, we can create something meaningful not just for others but for ourselves too. Whether it’s running or writing, it’s about finding the courage to start and the resilience to keep going. This is also a reminder for me: the journey matters just as much as the destination.
follow your heart….. listen to the universe….
It’s incredible how action can change everything. Ideas that once felt too big or out of reach start, to feel possible with just one small step. Each step quiets the doubts and lets my inner child grow louder. It’s not about silencing my critical thoughts entirely—they still show up—but I’ve learned to see them as proof of how much I care.
When I channel that care into action, I open myself up to new ideas, new possibilities, and the satisfaction of creating space for what truly matters in my world.
And it’s not just about creativity—it’s about making space in every part of life. In our relationships, in the hobbies we love but often set aside. Sometimes crying until we die, but open space for happiness. It’s about creating spaces to fill with your unique emotions and energy. Transform your inner critic into something positive. Don’t push too hard—know your limits but keep going.
Welcoming challenges and respecting my own expectations helps me stay on track—and I hope it inspires you to do the same.
Strawberry Spotlight
New Renaissance x @rickdick - they are giving us the real Anna Wintour energy that we all need to see right now - perfect example of how creativity can go ❤️ adoro
Julian Klausner has been promoted internally to the role of Creative Director, taking over from founder Dries Van Noten. He will unveil the first menswear collection as a lookbook in January 2025 - so excited to see!
HERDES Magazine released The Turkish Issue! it’s a proud moment to see how our culture, crafts, architecture, and fashion are presented to the world through photography by very talented artists. I’ve already ordered my copy with this stunning cover, and I’m especially excited because one of my favorite turkish artists -Gabriel Vorbon —is also featured. just amazing.! he also shot my favorite modelling photo ;) - you can grab it from “Free Time” bookstore if u are living in Barcelona.
Perfecto Estado’s new EP “Preciso De Um Break” is finally out! Go find a mirror
turn it up and dance to feel the energy of the day.
AI therapy - need a little bit of courage to talk but comments are pretty positive- calmi.so
Dinner at SOMA in Barcelona—amazing experience! Go try the rigatonis and you can thank me later <333
･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆ ｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ
After all, when we
open these spaces—
whether for creativity, emotions, relationships,
or inner growth
・゜゜・． who knows