Self-Talk. Do You Talk To Yourself?

I do. Self-talk is a method of gaining clarity about your behaviors, goals, feelings, motivations, and problem-solving – a form of brainstorming. You can gain rewards from self-talk since it gives you the chance to boost self-confidence, self-esteem and learn more about you.  When you learn to use self-talk as a consoling, positive “friend,” you can live happier life.

Long ago, self-talk was deemed a form of mental illness, but newer discoveries show that self-talk is a beneficial healing and clarifying process. People use it to find answers to problems. It is not always verbal, sometimes people write down their self-talk to sort out their feelings, emotions, and to view situations and problems from an objective perspective.

Self-talk is also known as self-therapy. Professional counseling and coaching has its value and place. However, as a first resort, try to learn to use and trust self-talk methods to find your inner strengths in discovering alternative and positive outcomes and attitudes.  On the other hand, professional coaches often have access to resources you may not know about. They are often objective sounding boards.

Self-talk is also a form of self-congratulation – you become aware of your impressions and inner strengths. In short, you feel comfortable with your achievements realizing that all humans strive to move forward with their lives and dreams; while acknowledging that sometimes all human beings make mistakes.

All of us need to feel healthy and happy in our daily lives in order to feel content with ourselves. Positive thinking and self-talk will help you become content and help you enjoy a better and healthy future.

If you like your intimate self, then odds will be that you do not need to work at becoming a more appealing choice or personality. People who feel well off in their skin do not seek to develop or adjust their personalities. It’s a choice. You can choose to make your outlook focused on the positive aspects of your life. Choose to be optimistic.

If you want to make a change, self-talk is an effective self-therapy strategy that trains the conscious and unconscious mind to either cease or start doing something. Like any skill, it requires practice. Try these simple steps:

1. Set aside some quiet time to clarify your idea, situation, problem, or the challenge you want to concentrate on.
2. Image yourself successful in your situation in vivid detail—the desired benefits, your feelings, the physical environment, etc.
3. Write out affirmations in one to two sentences as though you have accomplished your goal, changed your situation, etc.
4. Read or repeat these affirmations once in the morning and again at night. The subconscious is very powerful. You will find your behavior moving you toward your goals or changing your mindset.
5. Gently keep track of your progress – check on it from time to time. You have to do the work and your inner thoughts will change as you keep building up your self-esteem and celebrating your successes.

With positive thinking and self-talk, you’ll see your options, attitude and confidence improve each day. Being positive will lead you to success. Enjoy your conversation with you.