Yes, self-critique is, I think, one of the most important tools for improving on something. I also like that you touched on talking time. In my previous field, TEFL, it was called Teacher Talking Time (TTT) and learning to manage that to one's advantage was hugely helpful in teaching and has proven to be helpful in general. But back to self-critique. This is, in and of itself a skill, no? Very often, I have seen people shy away from self-critique because their expectations are set too high, as in, they judge themselves too harshly. In the interest of further discussion, can you or geneusutwerk comment on how you've improved your skill of self-critique?
I literally just got off of a phone call with a prospective client. After the phone call I assessed what I did right and wrong. Is it a skill to self assess? Sure it is. But that skill begins with the simple action of doing. After you partake in something you wish to become better at, force yourself to reflect. Do it. I was happy with how this call went. Honestly, I don't think I would change anything. At this point the exercise becomes assessing why the call went well. Once you can determine positive behaviors/actions you can replicate them when the time comes again. -this may all seem "obvious", but most people don't do this and rely on chance, natural ability and dumb luck. I create my own luck. Gosh...I sound like Tony Robbins.
I'm going to be honest, this is not something that I am that good at, but perhaps thenewgreen can help. One thing I have been doing recently is working on is mindfulness which I think helps you to look at your self without being critical of your self.