On a separate sheet of paper, write a sentence expressing a recent problem or event that upset you. Think of something troubling that happened in school, at work, or in your personal life. For example, "I got a 62 on my math test." (Keep the sentence at hand; you'll need it when you respond to the next question.)
In the box below, write a list of three or more criticisms your Inner Critic (IC) might level against you as a result of this situation. Then, type the response your Inner Guide (IG) might use to dispute each one immediately. Review the four methods of disputing described in this chapter. You only need to use one of them for each criticism.
For example,
IC: You failed that math test because you're terrible in math.
IG: It's true I failed the math test, but I'll study harder next time and do better. This was only the first test, and I now know what to expect next time.