Lesson: Self-talk

Self-talk, or talking to yourself, refers to the internal or external dialogue people have with themselves. This practice is common in both children and adults and serves various purposes. Children often engage in self-talk as a way to process their thoughts, solve problems, and guide their actions. It helps them develop language and self-regulation skills. For adults, self-talk can be a powerful tool for motivation, stress management, and decision-making. Positive self-talk encourages confidence and resilience, while negative self-talk can lead to self-doubt and anxiety. One benefit of self-talk is that it can clarify goals, improve focus, and help manage emotions. However, excessive or overly critical self-talk may reinforce negative thinking patterns. Adults should practice constructive self-talk to boost self-esteem and cope with challenges. By being mindful of our inner dialogue, we can harness the benefits of self-talk while minimizing its potential drawbacks. Let’s talk about it together.