As we continue to explore the idea of loving yourself, this week’s focus is on how we
talk to ourselves. Do you ever find yourself being negative towards yourself? Have you ever
found yourself thinking, “I can never do anything right!” or, “I will never be able to reach my
goals?” This is negative self-talk. Essentially, negative self-talk is an inner dialogue that is
harmful on all fronts.
Unlike self-reflection, it isn’t constructive, and individuals often do not feel motivated to
make changes based on these mental statements. It is important to understand that the two are
very different, and how to steer that negative self-talk into something more constructive and
loving. The best way to demolish negative self-talk is to be aware of what it is, when it's
happening, and how to put a positive spin on those thoughts.
So we’ve defined negative self-talk and given examples of it. What do we do to be more
aware of when it’s being practiced at the moment? And how do we prevent it from happening in
the future? Well for one, now that it’s been defined, it will be easier to point out to yourself in
the future. Next time you find yourself practicing negative self-talk, tell yourself that’s exactly
what it is, and put those thoughts into perspective. Are you truly worthless, or do you just feel
worthless at the moment? Why do you feel that way? What can you do to rid yourself of those
feelings?
28 February, 2020
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