Harnessing Positive Self-Talk

Self-talk shapes attention, effort, and confidence. The goal isn’t fake cheerleading; it’s realistic, supportive language that helps you act.

Spot the script. Notice “always/never” and harsh labels. Replace them with observations: “This was hard today,” or “I missed the mark on X.”

Use helpful prompts. Try: “What’s the next useful step?” “What would help 1%?” “What did I learn here?” Questions engage problem-solving instead of rumination.

Borrow a coach’s voice. If a friend said this about themselves, what would you say? Offer that line to yourself—brief, kind, and specific.

Pair words with action. Finish with a micro-commitment: send the email, set a five-minute timer, or outline three bullets. Action reinforces the new script.