10/04/2025
The Inner Rebel developed as an escape route from the harshness of the Inner Critic and it’s overwhelming expectations and negative self-talk.
The Inner Rebel wants release from the tension of “being good” and to give in to impulses.
Some psychological terms for the rebel are the “addictive voice” or “inner child.” Whatever the title in the outer world, the Inner Rebel sees food as fun, survival, and comfort. Yes, the Inner Rebel just wants to shout, “Screw it! Be bad. Have fun. Live life!”
The Inner Rebel seduces you away from exercise and a healthy eating plan with negative self-communication:
• “Everyone else gets to eat that and have fun, why can’t I?”
• “I don’t want to get up and exercise. I want to stay in bed where it’s warm.”
• “But eating chocolate is the only way I will feel better!”
• “What the hell? You already ate one so you might as well eat the rest.”
• “What a hard day! You deserve a reward.”
• “Relax today. You can start again Monday and be perfect.”
The Inner Rebel isn’t bad per se, the Inner Rebel is just trying to get back to the status quo and offer protection from the stress of the Inner Critic’s restrictions and expectations. The problem, unfortunately, is that the Inner Rebel is going about it the wrong way. Sure, release from the Inner Critic’s dictates is a momentarily relief, but ultimately guilt and disappointment arise from eating too much.
The Inner Critic and Inner Rebel are constantly pushing and pulling this way and that. “Be good!” says one. “Come on, be bad!” says the other.
No wonder the Weight Struggler ends up feeling overwhelmed and a bit crazy!
