Self-Talk Matters: 3 Quick Tips for Increasing POSITIVE Self-Talk TODAY

Self-Talk Matters: 3 Quick Tips for Increasing POSITIVE Self-Talk TODAY

Self-talk includes what we say to ourselves and how we respond to the thoughts that come to mind. It happens throughout the day, and you may not even notice its frequency. I challenge you to track your self-talk throughout the course of a day and to pay attention to your type of inner dialogue.  You may even discover self-talk patterns depending on your mood or particular situations. It is important that what we say to ourselves include kind, compassionate, and motivating words. If you find your self-talk to be more on the less affirming or negative side, here are 3 quick tips for increasing POSITIVE self-talk TODAY.

1. Focus on your strengths when approached with difficulties. No one is perfect, but everyone has some super qualities. Focus on those qualities and strengths. For every negative thought or self-talk statement, immediately combat it with one or two identified strengths.  

2. Talk to yourself as you would a good friend, a young child, or even a pet. Have you ever noticed that sometimes we treat and talk to everyone else around us better than we do for ourselves? By talking to yourself as you would a young child, for example, you will increase compassion for yourself, especially in times of mistakes or forgetfulness.

3. Start your self-talk using positive “I statements.” I statements are one of the most affirming ways to speak life into yourself! Even if you do not believe them, at first, frequently encourage yourself with statements such as “I can do this” or “I have all the tools I need to succeed.” You’ll be surprised what starts to seep in.

By identifying your own negative self-talk patterns and implementing these steps above, you’ll be on your way to a more confident version of you. Until next time!

P.S. Remember growth can happen anywhere, even in the stuck places.