An Exercise in the Difference Between Positive and Negative Self-Talk
I want to take a moment to show you the difference between negative and positive self-talk. This won’t take long. Do not drive or operate any form of machinery while doing this. Do this if you are able to focus and are open to getting really into it. In just a moment, you are going to close your eyes and as I talk, you are going to imagine that you are thinking the words that I’m saying.
Ready? Close your eyes…
I’m not good enough. I’m not worthy. I can’t do it. It won’t work. I’m not safe. I’m unlucky. I’m weird. I’m too old. I’m not good looking enough. People won’t like me. That person is better than me. Things can’t get better. The things that I want are for other people, not me.
Now open your eyes. Notice how that felt. If you were really focused on having a complete experience, then you felt that it felt pretty bad. That was just to get you to notice the kind of stuff that you’ve been doing to yourself. When you think those kind of thoughts, you’re hurting yourself. And what’s worse is that none of those thoughts are true.
Let’s now get what we just did out of your system. Begin to take some deep breathes and imagine that with each and every exhale, you’re getting rid of those ways of thinking and feeling. Now, we are going to do the opposite. This time around, I want you to listen intently to my words and as we do this, experience however you do that you are soaking them up.
Close your eyes…. I am more than good enough. I’m worthy. I can do it. Of course I can. It can work because I can make it work. I’m lucky. I’m blessed. I’m unique and one of a kind. I am much more than a number. I’m good looking. I have a lot to offer. I am likeable and loveable. I am the equal to all people. Things can get better. I deserve the things that I want and need. I deserve the best.
With your eyes continuing to be closed… Now take 3 deep breathes to cement those positive suggestions and imagine that with each and every inhale they are soaking into your being… taking root… where they will now begin to grow. Good job. I hope that this little exercise will make it so that you are more mindful of the words you tell yourself. To find out about my upcoming programs, be sure to sign up for my newsletter at my website.