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** One technique is to wear a rubber band around your wrist and snap it each time you have negative self-talk. This can help make you more aware of the negativity, as well as providing some discouragement.
** Try using softer language in your self-talk. Language can influence expectations, and expectations can influence perception. For instance, a dentist will say "this might pinch a little" when they give you an injection because the soft phrasing will reduce the expectation of pain, and the reduced expectation also reduces the perceived level of pain.
* Listen to those around you. Do they tend to be negative or positive? You can try to spend more time with positive people and less with negative, but even being aware that someone is negative can help shield you from some of the effects. Be particularly careful around those that are negative about your ability to change, as this can reduce your willpower and undermine your [[Motivation|motivation]].
* When faced with a difficult choice, it can help to make a list of your options. After listing all the options, then consider the pros and cons of each. This helps you make more rational choices, which not only helps with the particular choice, but also reinforces the sense that you are in control.
* Choices are stressful. Even simple choices such as what type of coffee to order creates a mild stress. Habits help when you always choose the same option, so you don't have to make a new the choice each time. For instance, I don't choose when to run; instead I have a habit of running at the same time and on the same days. The key with a habit is to ensure you're forming a habit around the right choice.
Meaningful change often takes time and patience, so aim to incrementally change your outlook. Getting help from friends and family can be beneficial if they are supportive and understanding, or you could look to a trained counselor.