Through mental health therapy after the stroke, I was reminded to "talk to myself as I would a friend". That seemed ridiculous to me at the time. It's easy to talk positively to other people. That is something I do naturally.
Somewhere in my journey, I was reminded about the tremendous impact positive thoughts have on mental health. And I gave it a try. Now I am much better is catching myself if I think negatively about myself or my situation.
Six months after the stroke, I bought this book, 365 positive self talk by Shad Helmsltetter. Throughout this book the author provides helpful "self talk tips" and daily messages. I have not really used this book, but will share some of the tips and daily messages with you in this month's challenge. This will be a good reminder for me and I hope you too.
October 6
"Every day I learn something that helps me grow. I know that just one idea, one good thought, one possibility that comes my way, can change my life for the better. So every day I look for every new idea and every positive thought that will help me become the winning person I have chosen to be."
"Self-Talk Tip #47 Could Positive Self-Talk Help the World Get Better?
What do you think? I know that positive self talk has helped me in a number of ways. I believe we are all connected in some ways. Who knows? It can't hurt.
Until next time.....
I think catching ourselves in negative self-talk can be very powerful because then we have the chance to correct the lie and tell ourselves the truth. And giving myself kind words always makes me feel better, if something is stressing me out.
You set the tone - if you're talking to yourself in a positive way, your mind is wired to make positivity happen. I believe in this wholeheartedly.
When I lost my husband 6 months ago I kept asking myself was there something more I could have done. I was hurt, angry and mad at me for not being able to help him even though the doctors and my friends tried to reassure me. I think I need to follow your lead and talk to myself differently. I know Rich wouldn't want me to feel they way I do.
I'm glad you chose to be your own friend, Cheryl. Being kind to yourself, talking positively to yourself, and being your own cheerleader contribute to our wellbeing in general. How we treat ourselves mentally is just as important as how we treat ourselves physically. They go hand-in-hand, very much a yin and yang concept.
Thanks for sharing, Cheryl! Your insights on self-talk are so on point, and it's a reminder that we all need to be kinder to ourselves. We are always the ones that are hardest on ourselves. It is amazing how powerful our inner voice can be when we turn it into a positive force! 😊
I loved how you talked about flipping the script on negative self-talk—so empowering!
Your examples of using affirmations felt really practical and doable, I’ll definitely be trying those!
It's such a good reminder that progress, not perfection, is the goal. Thank you for that!
Keep these gems coming, Cheryl! You're truly helping people create a more positive mindset.