Often, when we want to change or start creating new habits, the first thing we think of is being physically fit or having enough sleep. How about self-talk?
Although these things are really important, they cannot be done if we would not change our mindset, the way we think, and our relationship with ourselves – that’s probably the first thing we need to fix.
We talk to ourselves all the time, but how often do those conversations consist of negative thoughts and self-deprecating words? Such as “my hair is bad,” “I’m getting a bigger forehead,” “my muscles are soft,” “I don’t look as good as everybody else.” and so on and so forth.
This negative self-talk usually happens when we compare ourselves with others on how they’re doing or what they’ve accomplished. We’re very judgmental of ourselves, to our detriment, because it holds us back and gets us thinking negatively. The words we speak can have an enormous impact on our motivation, mentality, and self-esteem.
So how can we change this negative self-talk into a positive one?
The key is to be kind to yourself and believe in your capabilities.
Start talking to yourself with kindness and positivity rather than engaging in self-criticism or doubt. It can be as simple as repeating affirmations such as “I am capable” or “I will succeed” when facing difficult tasks or moments of insecurity. Or you need to start focusing on the positive things you have in your life, such as:
“I have an amazing wife who loves me,”
“I love my dog,”
“I have amazing parents,”
“I have some great friends,”
“I have amazing co-workers, people who work for me.”
It goes on and on.
We all know that negativity sticks with us; it brings us down. Hence, it takes at least five positive things to outweigh one negative. But that takes time, work, and effort.
So one of the things you also need to do is to surround yourself with positive people, or people who have the same experience as you, have people who will help you.
Practicing positive self-talk is an essential part of any successful self-care routine.
It encourages you to focus on your strengths, acknowledge your successes no matter how small they may be, and remind yourself of the things you are grateful for. It’s also important to recognize that mistakes are inevitable and should be seen as learning experiences rather than failures. This practice helps reframe our thought process from a negative one into a more constructive and confident one.
The more we encourage ourselves with positive thoughts and affirmations, the more likely we will achieve things that may once have seemed impossible.
We can always become better.
That’s what we should always strive for, to be the best possible person we can be physically and mentally.
Check out this episode of the Beards Biceps Beliefs and sometimes Bourbon on positive self-talk.
Watch it on Youtube or stream here.