Judging yourself while you speak is a confidence killer. You have to mute your inner critic as soon as you start talking. Here’s why: 

When you give your inner critic free rein, you will speak in a jerky pattern. You will pause to think of the right word – the word that makes you sound so smart.  

You will interrupt your flow to catch your breath at random points because you’re running out of air. Your facial expressions won’t connect with your message. Your eye contact will be everywhere. You project an image that is uncertain, hesitant -a leadership presence that lacks confidence. 

When you put your inner critic on hold, you liberate yourself to put all your energy into getting your message across.  

Your energy will flow forward. You will gesture naturally. You will take breaths at meaningful points. Your eye contact will be focused. Your facial expressions will match your message. 

So, I encourage you to mute that inner critic as soon as you start to speak. 
When you engage with your message, your audience will engage with your message. 
You will communicate conviction. You will project confidence.  

If your inner critic is in overdrive – let’s talk: