How to Talk to Yourself
Look here, you glorious land mermaid, you can do this!
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Listen to Your Inner Voice
Your inner voice is always there, speaking at an incredible pace—about 4,000 words a minute. That’s like having an hour-long conversation in your head, every minute!
This inner dialogue is part of what makes us human, helping us reflect on the past and prepare for the future.
Notice How You Speak to Yourself
When self-talk turns negative, it can weigh down your happiness, impact your relationships, and make you feel stuck.
It’s easy to get caught in a loop of anxious thoughts or self-criticism. But recognizing it is the first step toward breaking free.
Step Back and Breathe
When things feel overwhelming, try to put some distance between yourself and the chatter in your mind.
Ask yourself: Will this still matter in a year? How about in five or ten years? Giving yourself space helps soften the intensity of your worries.
Change the Way You Speak to Yourself
Instead of asking, "Why did I mess up?" try speaking to yourself the way you would a friend, or use the universal “you.”
Saying "You’re doing the best you can, and that’s okay" can shift your focus and help quiet that inner critic.
Write it Out
Putting your thoughts on paper can be a great way to release what’s on your mind.
Spend 20 minutes writing out your worries as if you were telling someone else’s story. This helps create some emotional distance and often brings a sense of relief.
Let Your Inner Voice Guide You
Your inner voice isn’t just there to point out what went wrong—it’s also there to help you stay on track with your goals and dreams.
Whether you’re aiming for a promotion or navigating a new relationship, your inner dialogue is there to remind you of what matters.
Be Kind to Yourself
When negative thoughts creep in, try responding with kindness, just like you would to someone you care about.
Would you talk to your best friend that way?
Swap harsh judgments with gentle encouragement, like, "You’re trying your best, and that’s enough." This kind of self-talk builds resilience and helps you move forward.
Talking Points
Will this matter in 5 minutes? 5 days? 5 weeks? 5 years?
You have a 100 percent track record for getting through tough days.
You’ve got this. Take it one step at a time.
It’s okay to feel this way. You’re allowed to take a break.
This feeling won’t last forever. Breathe through it.
Good things take time.
You are enough, just as you are.
Mistakes are part of learning. You’re growing from this.
You’ve handled tough situations before, and you’ll get through this too.
Focus on what you can control, and let go of what you can’t.
You don’t need to have all the answers right now.
Take things at your own pace. There’s no rush.
You deserve kindness, especially from yourself.
Remember, progress is progress, no matter how small.
You’re doing the best you can, and that’s enough.
It’s okay to ask for help when you need it.
Every day is a new opportunity to start fresh.
Trust yourself. You know what’s best for you.
You’re stronger than you think, and you’ve proven that before.
Feelings are not facts and not all thoughts are true.
I am allowed to take up space and prioritize myself.
I am worthy of love, respect, and care, just as I am.
Small steps still lead to big progress. Keep going.
My feelings are valid, but they don’t define who I am.
I’ve overcome challenges before, and I will do it again.
I can make mistakes and still be a good person.
Rest is not a reward; it’s a necessity.
I trust myself to handle whatever comes my way.
I can choose how I respond to this situation.
Today is an opportunity to be gentle with myself.
I don’t need permission to take care of myself.
My worth isn’t determined by what I accomplish today.
I am capable of finding solutions, even if I can’t see them yet.
I am resilient, and I will find my way through this.
I’m proud of the progress I’ve made, even if it’s not visible yet.
Watch how you talk to yourself — because you are listening.”
Germany Kent
