Self talk and Affirmations

If you're anything like me, there is a voice in your head that rambles on non-stop - all day, every day. Idk about you but if I am going to be forced to listen to her, I better learn how to check + control the volume of her voice. Amplify the positivity and acknowledge the negativity.

Self talk is the running monologue of thoughts in our minds. There are three types of self talk: negative, positive, and instructional.

It is important to be aware of our thoughts to correct ones that are hindering us and repeat ones that are beneficial. If you have not realized the significant toll that our thoughts have on our development then check out this link - https://www.boredpanda.com/ikea-experiment-bully-a-plant-jessica-ones/?utm_source=youhadmeatgardening&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=organic

It is a study that was performed on plants that were split into two groups - one group was told positive things while the other was told negative things. This study is a great example of how impactful our thoughts are. Even subconscious ones.. *especially subconscious ones* that is why we need to gain awareness and improve our self talk habits!

One way to build better self talk is through affirmations. There are several formats of affirmations and I encourage you to try out a few and see how they make you feel. You should feel GOOD when saying them - not like you're faking it. However, if you don't have a solid foundation of positive self talk then it may take some more practice to get used to this way of thinking.

- What if statements: I love these because I am one to say: "what if.. *insert most terrible unrealistic scenario ever* happens?!! Constantly. It never occurred to me until recently that I have the power to reverse that statement - mind blowing ikr! Flip that uno reverse card over and you have "what if *insert best possible outcome* happens? I will be so excited, and fulfilled. It is always great to insert how you will feel to associate that positive outcome with a positive feeling :)

- I am statements: These are amazing to start with because they build so much confidence over time. These may not feel as natural if you are a negative thinker in recovery. But trust the process, use a mix of these formats and you will start to believe and trust yourself. You can find a billion examples of these on Pinterest, google, etc. but a few of my favorites are: "I am capable." "I am worthy." "I am loved." "I am vibrant." "I am resilient." The list goes on and on once you get into the groove of it!

Affirmations are best when they are only a few words~4 to 5 word sentences that are easy to say. But self talk can also be practiced by journaling prompts. Again, you can search the web for these and find tons of examples. There are also amazing prompt books you could buy but it is not necessary!

Goal setting is a mindful practice that can increase our optimism as it gives us something to look forward to. Using the present tense is extremely useful here. Ex: It is great that I am wealthy. You can also add why: because I have an abundance of love, health, and stability in my life.

Contrastly, it is important not to use the phrases: I want, I desire, or I wish. These three phrases are not on a level of readiness to receive. When we are in a state of want, we stay there. Because we will ALWAYS want more and more. Be ready to receive.

More examples: I am so excited for my successful career. I am so grateful for my amazing friends. I am happy that I am growing, learning, and evolving.

Formula: I am *positive feeling* for/because *positive outcome*.

I hope this helps you on your journey of self love. I want to do an IG live going more in depth on the language that we use daily and how we can manipulate/formulate our language to benefit us. My IG is @grow.with.lowe if you want to check that out, let me know your thoughts below! Also please feel free to comment some fo your favorite affirmations/tips for better self talk. This is a communal space for us to all learn and grow 🤎

IG: https://www.instagram.com/grow.with.lowe/