Are you your own worst enemy? We’re often more critical of ourselves than others are, and harder on ourselves than we should be. Studies consistently show that positive and negative thought patterns lead to positive and negative outcomes and effects on our lives. So how do you get out of a habit of negative self-talk? Try using the power of reframing to acknowledge the truth of what you’re thinking, but in a constructive way that leads to progress instead of failure.

Instead of saying “I’m such an idiot for making that mistake,” say “I did the best I could with what I had, but how can I do better next time?”

Instead of saying “They’re better than me. I’m a failure,” say “What can I learn from their success?”

Instead of saying “This is too difficult. I can’t do it,” say “how can I break this down into smaller steps?”

Instead of saying “Last time I messed up, and it’s going to happen again,” say “I have more experience now and I’m ready.”

Have you been able to get a new perspective on negative self talk? What helped you be kinder to yourself?

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