“I talk to myself very often. Is that normal or too much? Am I a normal person? Should I do that? Is it good or bad? Can I control it?”

Have you asked yourself these questions? I know you have. These are quite common questions I hear almost all the time, from my clients. Before I answer these questions, let me define the term “self-talk”:

Self-talk usually happens at our conscious level; however, it is influenced by our unconscious minds.

It is usually based on emotions that we experience at any moment. It is the main way through which we talk to our unconscious minds.

A self-talk can be positive and encouraging, negative or distressing, or instructional.

A  positive self-talk  is a constructive and encouraging statement you tell yourself: “I love myself. I am confident”. “I am sure I can do it”. “My life is challenging but I am stronger than the challenges I face”.

A  negative self-talk  is a destructive and distressing statement. Examples include:“I am not capable”. “I am not good enough”. “I cannot feel happy”. “I cannot get the kind of money I want”. “Maybe I do not deserve a good relationship”. “I am too old for this”, etc.…

An  instructional self-talk  is a solution-seeking and guiding statement where you look for possible solutions. Examples include:“I should do this now”. “I need to call my client”. “I need to be more organized”. “I can start my piano lessons from this week”.

Dr. Alireza Sharifi

www.dralirezasharifi.com  |  (647) 671-0002