Do you ever hear a voice in your head telling you that you are no good or that says to give up what you’re doing?

In “How to Quiet Your Inner Critic,” Grant Snider, a cartoonist, author and illustrator, presents a humorous visual story about that voice and how to silence it:

Students, read the entire comic, then tell us:

• Are you your own worst critic? Do you find yourself saying things like “You’re no good” or “Why bother?” when you try to do something? If so, how does it affect your daily life and efforts?

• What do you think is the meaning or message of the illustrated story by Mr. Snider? What can you learn from it?

• What kinds of things does your inner critic give you a hard time about? Your writing? Your athletic abilities? Your appearance?

• The person in the drawing above finally yells “You’re imaginary!” to drive away her inner critic. What strategies do you use to give yourself a confidence boost?

• Does your inner voice ever give you praise or encouragement? Do you have any advice for other young people about how to better appreciate their own talents and efforts?

Want more writing prompts? You can find all of our questions in our Student Opinion column. Teachers, check out this guide to learn how you can incorporate them into your classroom.

Students 13 and older in the United States and Britain, and 16 and older elsewhere, are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public.