Positive self-talk involves thoughts that are supportive, encouraging, and empowering. It focuses on the individual's strengths, abilities, and accomplishments. Positive self-talk can help to build self-confidence, resilience, and optimism. For example, someone engaging in positive self-talk might think to themselves, "I can do this. I've overcome challenges before, and I'm capable of handling whatever comes my way."
Negative self-talk, on the other hand, involves thoughts that are critical, self-blaming, and discouraging. It focuses on the individual's perceived flaws, weaknesses, and shortcomings. Negative self-talk can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. For example, someone engaging in negative self-talk might think to themselves, "I'm such a failure. I always mess up. I'll never be good enough."
It is important to be aware of the self-talk patterns that you engage in, as they can have a significant impact on your life. By becoming aware of negative self-talk, you can challenge and replace those thoughts with more positive and supportive ones. This can lead to improved emotional well-being, increased self-confidence, and greater resilience in facing challenges.