Have you ever stopped to think about the constant chatter inside your head? That internal voice, your inner dialogue, plays a significant role in shaping your confidence and self-esteem. It’s a powerful influencer, and understanding how to harness it can be transformative.
Here’s the deal: If your inner dialogue is predominantly positive and empowering, you’re on the right track. But if it tends to lean towards the negative side, you’re not alone, and it’s something you can change. Let’s dive into some coaching tips to help you turn the tide on your self-talk.
1. You Are Not Your Thoughts
First and foremost, remember that you are not your thoughts. That voice inside your head can utter things that aren’t true or helpful. It’s simply “thought chatter,” a byproduct of your brain processing information. Just like digestion or breathing, you can gain control over it.
2. Recognize It
The initial step to change is awareness. Pay attention to your inner dialogue throughout the day. How often does it show up? What does it say? Identifying these patterns is essential.
3. Call It Out
As soon as you catch negative self-talk, don’t let it fester. Call it out! Rather than criticizing yourself for having these thoughts, acknowledge them and firmly declare your disinterest in their negativity. You can even give your inner critic a playful name like Negative Nelly or Pessimistic Pete.
4. Redirect It
Redirecting negative thought patterns is a powerful technique. Suppose you find yourself slipping into a pessimistic mindset. In that case, swiftly pivot by focusing on how a change in perspective can positively impact your situation.
For instance, if work stress has you contemplating skipping your workout because you feel tired and grouchy, reframe the situation. Remind yourself that exercise is precisely what you need to boost your mood and energy levels, and it will provide the relief you seek.
5. Replace It
Sometimes, proactively replacing negative thoughts with positive affirmations is the way to go. Identify meaningful affirmations that resonate with you, and repeat them several times a day. These phrases become the foundation of your empowering self-talk.
Here are some examples to get you started:
- “I am confident and unstoppable.”
- “I feel strong and motivated.”
- “I’m proud of my progress in my fitness routine.”
Remember, negative thoughts are entirely normal. Everyone experiences them from time to time. What matters is how you respond to them. By recognizing, calling out, redirecting, and replacing negative self-talk, you take control of your inner dialogue, shaping it into a powerful tool that propels you toward your goals, boosts your confidence, and enhances your self-esteem. You’ve got this!
The key is to become aware of them and to replace them with ideas and thoughts that help you build CONFIDENCE and feel good about yourself… not tear you down and beat you up.
Life is too short to let negative self-talk lie to you and prevent you from living the life you are MEANT TO
LIVE. Don’t you agree?
Committed to your Success,
Keith, Michelle & More Team
REFERENCES:
www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/out-the-darkness/201803/the-voice-inside-your-head
www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/living-forward/201603/4-ways-stop-beating-yourself-once-and-all