4-minute read
We’ve all been there before where we’re sitting in front of the mirror, looking ourselves up and down, picking out every little thing that we don’t like. Whether it’s our hair, our skin, our weight, or our outfit, it’s easy to focus on everything that we want to change. But what if we flipped the script? What if instead of dwelling on our flaws, we took a minute to appreciate everything that we do like about ourselves?
It turns out that there’s a science to back up the power of positive self-talk. A study published in the journal Psychological Science found that people who engaged in positive self-talk before completing a challenging task had better results than those who didn’t.
In the study, participants were asked to complete a difficult puzzle while either repeating a positive phrase (“I’m a capable person”) or a neutral phrase (“I am not judging myself”). The researchers found that those who repeated the positive phrase were more likely to persist on the puzzle and persevere in the face of setbacks.
In another study, this one published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, researchers found that self-compassion—defined as “being understanding and kind towards oneself during difficult times”—was linked with increased psychological well-being and decreased anxiety and depression. In other words, people who are able to offer themselves compassion and understanding are better able to thrive mentally and emotionally.
Can Self Praise Change Your Life?
We have all been there before. We work hard day in and day out, often sacrificing our personal lives for our professional ones. We strive to be the best that we can be, but sometimes it feels like we are stuck in a rut. If this sounds familiar, then it may be time for you to practice self-praise.
Self-praise is the act of showing yourself compassion and appreciation. It is recognizing your own worth and taking the time to care for yourself, both (Mental Plane) emotionally and (Physical Plane) physically.
When you make the decision to practice self-praise, it can have a profound impact on your New NOW. Not only will you feel happier and more fulfilled, but you will also be more productive and successful in both your personal and professional life. So, if you are looking for a way to change your NOW, start by practicing self-praise. It just might be the best decision you ever make.
How To Incorporate Positive Self-Talk Into Your New NOW
NOW that we know the science behind why positive self-talk is so powerful, let’s talk about how we can incorporate it into our New NOW. One way to do this is by using affirmations. Affirmations are positive statements about us that we repeat on a regular basis. For example, some common affirmations include “I am worthy,” “I am enough,” “I am strong,” “I am loved,” and “I am valued.” My mantra is “The NOW is all I have. The NOW is all I need. The NOW is all I get, and it is perfect.”
Another way to practice positive self-talk is by keeping a gratitude journal. Every day, take a few minutes to write down three things that you’re grateful for—big or small. Maybe you’re grateful for your partner’s support, your best friend’s sense of humor, or your dog’s cuddles. Whatever it is, taking time each day to reflect on the good in your life can help shift your focus from negative to positive. I have several journal-type books referenced on my website that can support your journey to faithfully honor your New NOW so check the tabs! www.ZitoProHealth.com
The next time you find yourself critiquing your appearance or dwelling on something you don’t like about yourself, try pausing for a moment and saying something kind instead. It might feel weird at first, but trust your true self — your Mental Plane mind and your Physical Plane body will thank you for it in the long run!