We all have an inner voice, which can be a powerful ally and guardian as we navigate our way down life's path, past the primroses and the boulders, with plenty of potholes and beauty spots along the way.

But is that inner voice always helping us make the right choices? Depending on how our lives have gone it may be that the voice you are listening to isn't yours at all but an "echo" of an outer voice that may have held you back, rather than propelled you forward.

Nothing is good enough?

Take the example of someone who grew up in a home where both parents were deeply critical. No exam result or sporting trophy was good enough.

Years later, that child, now grown up, has a family... a successful business, but still believes that he's not good enough. An inner voice drives him to work even harder or acquire even more. He never feels they "deserve" to enjoy what they already have.

In this case the inner voice is an echo of that earlier parental disapproval. The best thing they can do is ignore what is being said, no matter how convincing the voice may seem.

Silliness can work wonders

One technique they can use is reframing; replacing the persuasive tone their inner voice uses with something that's easier to dismiss or ignore. Imagine that disapproving parental voice replaced with a Donald Duck quack?

And once they put the inner voice in its place they can begin to explore where their true inner voice may be hiding. Deep relaxation and meditation can be very helpful as it creates an inner peace and calm. Then that true inner voice can venture out and tell you something that's worth listening to.

If you're seeking your inner voice you will enjoy exploring our meditation section