You Are What You Think: The Power of Your Inner Dialogue

It’s time to get honest: how often do you pay attention to what goes through your mind when you look in the mirror? What about when you make a mistake, or when you catch a glimpse of someone living a life that seems so much more... ‘‘perfect’’ than yours? Spoiler alert: The thoughts swirling around in your mind have an incredible impact on your life. Yes, really!

A Little Mindfulness Goes a Long Way

Let’s unpack that idea. First off, you’re not just a passenger in your own brain. You’re the driver. Your thoughts are influencing every outcome, every feeling, and every interaction you have. Remember the last time you tried something new? How did you talk to yourself about it? Did you hear the backseat driver whisper “You’re not good enough for this,” or did you shout back that empowering mantra of “I’ve got this!”?

Those thoughts aren’t just fluffy platitudes; they’re your reality. And here’s the twist: you get to choose what thoughts take the wheel.

The Damage of Negative Self-Talk

Let’s face it: we live in a world that constantly bombards us with comparison, whether it’s through social media highlights or those familiar faces at social gatherings where judgment feels unavoidable. If you find yourself trapped in the cycle of feeling inferior or unworthy, it’s time to break the mold.

Negative self-talk can be sneaky. It creeps in at unexpected moments, turning what could be a moment of joy into a pit of self-doubt. When you’re driven by the belief that you’re not good enough, guess what? You’ll likely hold yourself back, avoiding opportunities, friendships, and experiences that could lead to growth.

Flip the Script

But here’s where the magic happens: flipping the script. It may sound cliché, but hear me out. When those thoughts of “I’m not worthy” bubble up, challenge them. Ask yourself, “Is this true?” Have you gathered solid evidence against yourself, or are you just replaying the habits of that inner critic who has sat comfortably in your mind for way too long?

Instead, offer yourself a little grace. When you stumble over a word in a meeting, try responding with, “I’m learning, and that’s okay,” rather than mentally berating yourself. Acknowledging your humanity is the first step toward reclaiming your narrative.

Build Your Thought Arsenal

If you’re still on the “I don’t know how to be positive” train, here’s a little toolbox of options:

1. Affirmations:

Start your day with affirmations that resonate. Something simple like, “I am capable of achieving my goals” can set a powerful tone for your day

2. Self-Reflection:

Journaling after a tough day? Write down your thoughts. But don’t just document; challenge them. What is the evidence for and against these feelings? Get curious.

3. Mindfulness:

Incorporate mindfulness practices. When caught in a spiral of negativity, take a breath, and let yourself ‘‘feel.’’ Acknowledge what’s there without judgment.

4. Surround Yourself with Positivity:

Think of your mental space as a garden; what are you planting? Uplifting content—books, podcasts, and even the company you keep—can nourish your mind and change your perspective.

5. Recognise Your Power

Every time you notice a negative thought, remember: you have the power to rewrite that narrative. It may take work, but every inch you climb up that mental hill is worth it.

When we begin to shift our thoughts from “I can’t” to “I’m learning how,” we give ourselves permission to be wrong, to grow, and to fail spectacularly. And here’s a secret—failure is just as much a part of success as the victories.

So, What Are You Telling Yourself Today?

As you go about your day, pause and check in with those thoughts. Are you speaking to yourself like the friend you want to be? Remember, you are not what you think in a limiting sense; you’re what you allow those thoughts to become.

Embrace the fact that your thoughts are your paintbrush, and you are the artist of your life. The canvas is wide open. Fill it with beautiful colours, resilience, and self-love. You are what you think, so make it a masterpiece.

Let’s get out there and flip the negative self-talk, improve self-esteem, and boost inner confidence!

Connect today, and together, we’ll redefine your narrative, and empower you to embrace the incredible person you truly are.

Lisa x