We all do it, it may even be habitual and unconscious, it’s that monologue in our head that reminds us we aren’t good enough, smart enough, pretty enough, or talented enough. As soon as we rise in the morning, our self-talk goes to work providing us with an overview of what’s working and what isn’t. Many of us have our favorites, those scripts in our head that continually remind us we are too old or lacking somehow. Research shows that these habitual thoughts contribute to negative emotions including anger, frustration, depression, hopelessness, and anxiety. It a nutshell, it can lower our sense of self-worth and mental fitness.

To make a move towards positive self-talk, it is important to create awareness around the current negative messages. By replacing that negative thought with a positive one (even if it is unbelievable at the time) can help to readjust one’s thinking to more self-serving thoughts. Interestingly, research into the science of gratitude and thankfulness is growing according to Dr. Robert Emmons, professor of psychology at the University of California, Davis. The positive benefits of gratitude include enhanced mental fitness and overall quality of life. When negative thoughts show up, the key is to replace them with thoughts of gratitude (even if it is as simple as being grateful for eyes that see or breathing fresh air). Overtime, positive self-talk may become an everyday occurrence rather than a special occasion.