We often talk to others in more positive ways than we talk to ourselves.  

“Self-talk” is that conversation you have in your own head… and it can have a big impact on your attitude. The words you use in your head matter!

If you catch yourself using negative self-talk (which many people do!) stop and ask yourself “would I say that to my child or friend”? If the answer is no perhaps it is time to try and readjust your thinking.

Research shows that if we tell ourselves something for long enough, we start to believe it and it becomes our reality. This is the same whether the message is positive or negative.  

Saying “I can do it” or “it’s OK to make a mistake” may feel forced at first. To practice positive self-talk, imagine you’re encouraging a loved one!

Don’t be concerned, positive self-talk is not the same as saying “it is all about me” or thinking that you are more important than those around you. It is just about being as kind to yourself as you are to those around you. It is helping you to be the best you that you can be… and ultimately this benefits everyone!  

If you find yourself using a lot of negative self-talk cut yourself some slack and remember everyone makes mistakes! Did you know that JKI Rowling was turned away from 12 publishing houses before Bloomsbury finally took her on the advice of the company chairman’s 8-year-old daughter? I like to think of JKI Rowling as an inspirational positive self-talker… look where the world of children’s literature would be today if the chatter in her head had led her to give up!

Here are some examples of negative vs positive self-talk taken from the American Diabetes Association website.

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I didn't walk every day last week. I'm an exercise failure.

Positive alternative

I walked four out of seven days last week; some exercise is always better than none.

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The only reason I parked far away from the entrance to the store was because I couldn't find a closer spot.

Positive alternative

I like to walk; it is a good, healthy activity for me to do.

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I can't run, so I can't get enough exercise to do me any good.

Positive alternative

I'm glad I decided to go out on a walk. Some exercise is better than nothing!

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My doctor wants me to have a foot evaluation before I start doing more activity. That must mean exercise is bad for my feet.

Positive alternative

Because I live with diabetes, I must always take care of my feet. I'm glad that my doctor is making sure that the activity I do is right for me.

Positive self-talk is not just a tool for boosting personal confidence; it can be a vital part of managing our diabetes. When living with diabetes, the way we speak to ourselves can influence our ability to cope and our overall quality of life. Just as we would encourage a friend or loved one facing a challenge, speaking kindly to ourselves can foster resilience and a proactive approach to our health.  

By shifting our internal dialogue to be more supportive and compassionate, we can better manage stress, adhere to treatment plans, and maintain a more positive outlook. In turn, this can lead to improved health outcomes and a more fulfilling life despite the challenges of living with diabetes. Embracing positive self-talk is a small but powerful step toward self-care that benefits not only ourselves but also those who care about us.

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