How You Talk to Yourself Matters

What Is Self-Talk?

Self-talk is the ongoing conversation you have with yourself in your mind. It includes the thoughts you tell yourself about who you are, how you’re doing, and what you expect from yourself and the world.

Your Inner Voice Is Always With You

Self-talk is like background music in your life. It plays all the time, even when you don’t notice it. And just like music, it can lift you up, or bring you down.

We Are Often Hard on Ourselves

Many people talk to themselves in ways they would never talk to someone they love. We call ourselves failures. We say we are not good enough. We blame ourselves for things we would forgive in others.

Think About a Child

Imagine a small child sitting next to you. Would you ever say,“You’re worthless”? Of course not.

That child still lives inside every adult. And that child hears the way we talk to ourselves.

Kind Self-Talk Is Honest

Changing self-talk does not mean pretending everything is fine. It means being honest and kind.

Try changing your words:

• “I’m a failure” → “I’m learning.”

• “Nobody likes me” → “Some people care about me.”

• “I give up” → “I’ll try again tomorrow.”

• 
  

Talk to Yourself Like Someone You Care About

Talk to yourself the way you would talk to a good friend. Or like you would talk to a sweet puppy sitting in your lap. Be gentle. Be patient. Be encouraging.

You Deserve a Safe Inner World

The way you talk to yourself shapes how you feel inside. You deserve an inner world that feels safe, kind, and supportive.

The infographic below breaks down self-talk in a simple, visual way. It’s meant to help you recognize your inner voice and practice speaking to yourself with more kindness.