Over the last few weeks, we have been looking at the important topics surrounding mental health and today I want to discuss one of the most discussed topics within my work as a therapist.

Self-talk.

So, what is Self-Talk?

Self-talk is your internal dialogue. It's influenced by your subconscious mind and it reveals your thoughts, beliefs, questions, and ideas. Self-talk can be both negative and positive. It can be encouraging, and it can be distressing.

Psychology Today explains that “our inner voice, or self-talk, combining conscious thoughts and unconscious beliefs and biases, provides a way for the brain to interpret and process daily experiences.
Our self-talk can be cheerful and supportive or negative and self-defeating. Self-talk can be beneficial when it’s positive, calming fears and bolstering confidence. Human nature, unfortunately, is prone to negative self-talk, including sweeping assertions like “I can’t do anything right” or “I’m a complete failure."

Reason to Reframe:

Recently, my pastor asked a thought-provoking question to the congregation in regard to self-talk, he asked: “What story are you telling yourself?”

You see, the narrative we believe about ourselves will have a significant impact on the way we live our lives, view ourselves, and our image of God.

These narratives often come from childhood messages, adverse experiences and internal evaluations of our self-perception. The stories we tell ourselves directly impact our self-concept, Self-esteem & self-worth. These can in many ways limit our full expression of personality.

So, Why does this matter to God?

The simple answer to this question is that our negative self-talk reflects a heart that believes lies over truth. Jesus says that out of the heart the mouth speaks. So, what is our heart believing? Is it reflective of our identity as children of God?

Think about your most recent internal dialogue. Maybe the thing you told yourself when you missed an A on an exam, or disappointed your boss at work. Maybe it's the thing you tell yourself when you see your reflection in the mirror, or when you fail to be the parent, or spouse, or friend you think you should be.

Now, listen to how God talks about you…

Isaiah 43:1-4 - Loved, called, and chosen
2 Corinthians 5:17 - New creation
Ephesians 2:10 - God’s workmanship
1 Peter 2:9 - Royal and holy people
Romans 8:2 - Free from condemnation
Romans 8: 38-39 - More than conquerors
1 John 3:1- Children of God

Self-compassion practice:
Critical self, Wounded Self, Compassionate self

Resources: Gentle & Lowly - Dan Ortland

Episode Image Credit: Ponomariova Maria

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