The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos
Q: "How Do I Stop Negative Self-talk?"
Jul 25, 2022
In this enlightening discussion, Ethan Kross, a professor and expert on negative self-talk, explains the detrimental effects of our critical inner voice. He shares practical strategies to quiet this chatter, like 'distanced self-talk' and linguistic distancing to reshape our self-dialogue. Kross emphasizes self-compassion and how reframing negative thoughts can lead to improved mental health and well-being. The conversation offers valuable insights for anyone struggling with self-doubt and seeking a more positive mindset.
31:29
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Quick takeaways
- Challenging negative self-talk can be done by using linguistic distancing techniques like referring to oneself in the second or third person, and taking on the perspective of a wise other person.
- Negative self-talk can impair our ability to focus, hinder performance, and have adverse effects on our physical health, but it can be harnessed for personal growth by gaining perspective, activating alter egos, and seeking support from others.
Deep dives
Strategies for Controlling Negative Self-Talk
Negative thought patterns and rumination are ineffective strategies for controlling our thoughts. The book 'Chatter' by Ethan Cross provides useful strategies to change our inner monologue and fight our inner critic. These strategies include coaching ourselves through linguistic distancing, using our own name or the second person pronoun, and taking the perspective of a wise other person. Normalizing our experiences and activating alter egos can also help shift our perspective and create distance from negative self-talk.
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