BellaOnline Forums Beauty and Self Body Image Self Talk and Believing in Yourself

Have you found that there were things you have not done because of negative self talk? What about positive self talk, do you practice it? Has self talk affected your body image?

Hi Nadine

I do so believe in self-talk. It's not as some people may think, walking around the park and talking to the trees (smile). I really does help me personally.

Years ago through my husband, he obtained a DVD (also a book) called The Secret. If you or any visitors haven't heard of this you must watch it once a day for 7 days. It is one hour long. I settled down at the end of my day and watched.

Anyway, The Secret taught me how to use positivity in my life for the better. Not only for my own physical being, but inspiring others around me. The motto of this documentary (I think that's what it is) is "Thoughts become things!" So if you think negative you will attract "bad" people, situations, life events etc....and of course the opposite if you think "positive".

For instance, I have NEVER had trouble finding a job - even though I may have been desperate sometimes. I used to walk into establishments and "self-talk" myself that I can do this, I have the skills and they will love me! It always worked (but I was always nervous). When you have pride in yourself you can do anything you want and have anything you put your mind to....I still have stuff on my list..I am working on that!

Great articles Nadine, I love your site!

This is actualy a really good subject.

I have my "Daily-Mirror-Reflection" self-coach speach.

I present my challenges, discuss what's holding me back and then delve into some deep "psycho-therapy."

In the end, though, what I find is that's it's a worry of some sort or empathic caring for someone or something.

So...I straighten up tell myself, it's either a facial or 5 minutes on the "Stepper!" The mountain climber thingy.

I'm working my way back up. Used to do it twice a day, but I'd break it up. So 20 minutes...cooking/house cleaning, writing - 3-4 hrs later...get right back on again.

But I find I feel better about myself when I get whatever it is out of my system and then do something about it

Hi Allyson,

Thanks for the kind words. I too have watched the Secret. I agree it is important to act "as if." If we believe it, we have a much greater chance of achieving it. My first job was as a vet tech, I had no experience but I, like you, talked my way into the job.

Thanks for your post!

Hi Karen,

You are so right! When I keep feelings stuffed inside I am miserable. I need to do something about them and exercise is a great way to get out of my own head.

Thanks for the wonderful ideas!

Hi Nadine

You are most welcome!

I don't know if this belongs here or not, but you know those giant hanging punching (boxing-heavy) larger than life things they have?

Well, I found one in the basement. Looked like it hadn't been used in years and asked my husband to hang it for me.

I only give it a swipe or two - apparently you need punching gloves (ya - ouch).

But self-talk, I mean it seems like we're a biological computer almost and it's a HUGE part of how we perceive ourselves.

So w/me, instead of (in my head) thinking about all of the things I wish I could do better or actually in some cases, I'm not happy w/myself, my husband has to work so hard.

But I pick 1 thing. I go from there. Put up the "Stop-Sign" like Lisa suggests and whatever it is I do well, I replace the bad thoughts w/the good thought of what I did.

After using the punching bag

Elleise,

I have challenged myself to do something similar. If I start any negative self talk about my looks--and I am at home--I have to go and drink a tall glass of water or do 10 more minutes on the wii fit. I must *do* something for my health since that is what I want to focus on now in my middle years and beyond, NOT on how cute I think I am or am not.

If I can feel great up until I am 100 years old, I want to do that!

Thanks for the posts everyone.
Elleise - I like the Stop Sign concept and switching the thought from something bad to something good.

Leah - I agree long term thinking about my health is way more productive than focusing on this moment.

Hope you all have a great day!

I am in agreement that positive affirmations to yourself can help give you more confidence. I went into a place of business recently and I was very confident in my abilities to get the job. They are going to hire me.