Humans can self-sabotage in various ways that hinder their success. Negative self-talk is one of many common behaviors and thought patterns that contribute to self-sabotage.
Negative Self-Talk: Engaging in critical or negative thoughts about oneself can erode confidence and lead to a lack of motivation.
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- That devil on your shoulder telling you that you can’t when you actually can.
- That inner voice telling you that you are not good enough, not pretty enough, not strong enough, not smart enough, you’re not ready, and the list goes on.
- That voice can be unrelenting if not controlled.
- All too often we…
- Overgeneralize – one bad moment is now the norm.
- Catastrophize – turning a little thing into a huge thing regarding potential consequences.
- Personalize – self-blame for events outside of our control.
- Hold ourselves to unrealistic standards.
- Discount the positive – focus on flaws vs achievement.
Remedies:
- Question your negative thinking
- Question the validity of the negative thought and reframe it in a more positive light
- Self-awareness. Notice patterns of negative self-talk and the situations that trigger them.
- Journal. Write down the negative thoughts, challenge them, or write an opposing positive affirmation
- Surround yourself with positive people.
- Take some time out for meditation. Calm your mind to reduce the negative self-talk.
- And don’t be afraid to get help
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