Looking for...

positive self talk.  This is what I am working on in therapy.  What do you say (positive) to yourself to get you through a tough situation, to get yourself to stop and think or just because your thinking has changed.  I have several but just thought the vast amount of knowledge here might be able to help.

Can't wait to read the responses...cause I am TERRIBLE at positive self talk.  I think the best I do is something like "You are being ridiculous for even thinking that" which is NOT a good way to think cause I'm still putting myself down.

Great topic

Pam

I was just thinking last night, that I wanted to make about post about this. So I am glad to see I am not the only one. I was also wondering if there are any books or CD's out there that anyone recommends?

I need help!

The Feeling Good Handbook by David D. Burns is a good book.  You can read the chapters that are of interest to you, so you don't have to start at chapter one if you don't want.

Wishing you positive thoughts for this beautiful Wednesday!

Debbie

I just saw the this guy was in Lancaster 3 weeks ago doing a seminar. Go figure.......I am always late.....LOL

we need our resident clinician :) My Therapist recommends this too - and well I'm a bit lost!!

I make a habit of reminding myself (almost daily), that I am blessed and that there is always someone else somewhere who is having a much tougher time than me.  That's enough to get me thru.

Lisa

finally one I can answer!  My therapist tells me Be Kind to Yourself!  My personal mantra is "get the f off of your ass and stop feeling sorry for yourself there's a whole world out there for you to enjoy.  I used to suffer from severe depression where I would sleep most of the day away so I wouldn't have to deal with anything and now I refuse to do that.  I am up early and seizing the day. I go to bed at night knowing I accomplished all that I can today and its a great feeling.

I am worth it! 

Believe

My problem is BIG and important to me but in the grand scheme of things is it really unsolvable?

Dream

Faith

Breath! 

When you catch yourself saying negative things, rework it to a positive. . .  for instance, get up in the morning and chose the mood you will have and even when it's rainy, gloomy or cold, focus on something positive, it reinforces the positive in you.  Rework phrases like, I can't, into things like I would rather not do that, it is empowering to chose what you do, as to thinking in terms of can't, shouldn't, won't. . .  do silly things like look in the mirror and take stock of what you like about your features, it takes effort to turn negative to positive initially, but overtime it changes you in ways that make a big difference in your perceptions on life.  Progress, not perfection is what you are after. . .  Accentuate your good attributes and work on the ones that you feel hold you back.  It's taken me years of practice, and I still have to work it, but most days I think of myself as a pretty good person with lots to bring to the party ;)

Have a great day!