We've all been there: the moment a mistake is made, the wrong thing is said, or we simply experience regret. Now consider the way you tend to respond to yourself in these moments. Do you tend to use language that is reassuring, kind, and compassionate? Or do you lean more toward criticism, frustration, or even disgust with yourself? The latter is what we call the inner critic, that voice or internal part that works to punish us when we experience guilt or regret.