The article highlights the power of self-talk. When negative energy grabs one, then negative thoughts encircle one’s mind that prevent one from having positive thoughts. The article gives insights on how one can get out of the situation and transform oneself into a more resilient person.
Self-talk is the script that we use to give shape to our lives. It is the way you talk to yourself or the inner voice that you have within yourself. You might not be aware that you are doing it but you almost certainly are. It decides how you feel and what you do.
If you want to understand self-talk. Take a minute and think about what you’ve said to yourself today. How do you feel after you engage in this inner introspection? The conversation you do with yourself can be devastating and beneficial. This gives direction to one’s life and influences the events of their life as well. We should be aware of the fact that positive self-talk is a powerful tool for increasing self-confidence and curbing negative emotions. Let’s see the difference between these two.
Our lives become serious sometimes. We can lighten them up a little with our little self-talk. It is like a rollercoaster- this life. Although, all of us want to live a content life, but we move through life feeling miserable, stuck in a maladaptive mindset without even realizing it. If we constantly give out messages that do not really benefit us, our minds will accept those as true and continue to regard it as ‘natural and given’. The musings of the inner critic limit your beliefs in yourself and won’t help you to reach your potential. It diminishes our ability to make changes in our life that would help you grow. The consequence of negative self-talk is highly linked to mental health problems. On the contrary, if we engage in positive conversations, we begin to see the world positively, which will ultimately make us feel positive and good about ourselves. However, by incorporating a more encouraging attitude, you will be able to access the benefits of positive thinking that will lead to greater empowerment. Now we talk about the ways to transform our self-talk.
Recognize your Negative self-talk:
Negative thoughts seem to be automatic and unconscious, most of the times. In certain scenarios, they just pop up into your head without any conscious effort. They can sound like, “Oh I can’t do anything right”, “Why am I always ruining stuff”, “I am good for nothing.”
So, it’s important to take a second to evaluate your thoughts so you can recognize thoughts that are unrealistic and, unproductive or irrational. To do this, just look for evidence that your thought isn’t true. Most of our thoughts are likely to be opinions rather than facts. Therefore, ask yourself regarding the evidence that makes it true. Mostly, you won’t find any.
Shift Your Perspective:
Sometimes looking at things in the long term can help you to realize that you may be placing too great an emphasis on something. For example, you may ask yourself if something you're upset by will matter in five years or even one.
Secondly, imagining yourself and your situation from a third person perspective, asking questions, logically looking for answers for the same, and also reminding yourself that most of the worries that you have, is something that will be resolved, for sure in the short run.This can often minimize the negativity, fear, and urgency in negative self-talk.
Give yourself positive affirmations:
Sometimes, seeing positive words or inspiring images can be enough to redirect your thoughts. Post small reminders in your phones, in your home, and anywhere you spend a significant amount of time. Surround yourself with people who have a radiant personality. Whether or not you notice it, your company can make a huge impact on the person you are. Imagine it like this, while a parrot at a saint’s house might say good things, a parrot at the house of a thief, might abuse, be violent and ferocious.
Having a good social support provides you with a direction to come out of your negative phase and move forward. I know most of you are thinking that this is easier said than done, and I agree. But it would be biased if we didn’t give ourselves a chance. That still sounds like a lot, but think of the mental health toll negative self-talk takes. It’s exhausting to think unkind things about yourself 24/7. By slowing down, analysing your thoughts, and going through these simple steps, the negativity will begin to fade, and a happier you will emerge.
You can also choose your own way but remember that you should surround yourself with optimism, that helps you grow into a better person and stay away from pessimism, that diminishes your self- esteem.
References
https://blogs.jobget.com/blog/the-power-of-positive-self-talk/
About the Author:
Parul is currently pursuing Bachelor of Commerce (Program) from Daulat Ram College. She is an avid writer and reader and a budding feminist who wants to change the mindset of people. She loves to write early in the morning especially on weekends with a sip of coffee which gives a fresh start to her day.
Much needed!