How to Silence Negative Self-Talk

You are worthy, now own it

We all have that voice whispering doubts, questioning our worth, and highlighting our flaws. It amplifies when life feels overwhelming. But here’s the truth: you can quiet it not by ignoring it but by understanding and replacing it with one that acknowledges your strengths and growth.

This isn’t about forced positivity but creating space to breathe and reflect. Let’s explore practical ways to break free from negative self-talk and foster a kinder dialogue with yourself. It takes time, but you can reclaim your inner voice with practice.

Photo by BRUNO CERVERA on Unsplash

Stop comparing

The interconnectedness of the digital world brings with it 24/7 access. Social media is always there, people are always online, and content is always being made. While the ability to interact with others anytime is great, it can also brew doubt.

We see what our friends and those we admire are up to, and admiration can turn sour when taken in large doses. We compare their stories and journeys to ours, almost to confirm our doubts.

That feedback loop of false mantras (“I’m not good enough,” “I’m so far behind in life,” and “I’ll never get what I want or need”) becomes reinforced because if we see the “proof,” we believe it more.

If you start to feel jealous, step away from the source (digital or physical) if you can and remind yourself with a mental or written list of what you’re most proud of yourself.

It’s okay to falter when we seemingly silence our inner critic or that discouraging voice. Processes aren’t perfect, but practice needs intention. You know yourself better than anyone, so pay attention to your preferences and what’s realistic for you.

Embrace your mornings with positivity

I’ll be honest: sometimes, the word “positivity” makes me cringe. It’s a little overused because the term encompasses such brevity in its meanings, almost making it obscure. Does it mean always to be happy, that there’s no room for any other emotion? How can you “be positive” when your inner world feels so dark?

Positivity, in this aspect, is more like an intention. It’s setting up a ritual the night before so you can wake up in a better mindset that’ll help you tackle the day. As you fall asleep, think of neutral things—nothing stressful like work or that unfolded pile of laundry.

Instead, imagine yourself on a beach, listening to the lapping waves and watching the sunset. Count the number of shells or stars you see in the sky. No one is bothering you; it’s just you and your surroundings.

Another ritual to adopt is probably another overused term: journaling. Your handwriting doesn’t need to be perfect (or legible), and your thought process doesn’t need to be streamlined.

Just get whatever’s on your mind onto the page, preferably a physical copy, as typing on your phone or computer will ruin your chance of sleeping well. Write uncensored about a particular situation or tap into your consciousness to unclutter your mind.

Those bedtime routines and rituals will provide a refreshing sleep and a more energetic morning.

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The following steps explain how to build self-compassion and find growth opportunities, even when it feels impossible. Upgrade your subscription to unlock the entire article to continue your journey. If you already have, please enjoy the rest!

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