CHANGING YOUR INNER DIALOGUE

Originally published 5/08

In order to heal depression and anxiety, it is important to look at your inner dialogue. How are you talking to yourself; what messages are you giving yourself? Do you tell yourself that you cannot disappoint others? That you have to be perfect so nobody else gets upset? Do you tell yourself that you are stupid, or bad or incompetent? If so, you are treating yourself with disrespect. Once you are aware of your inner dialogue, try imagining that you are talking this way to a child that you love. What do you imagine would happen to this child? Then picture yourself at a young age. Would you want to be talked to this way? Ask yourself what the “little you” really needs to hear. “I love you no matter what.” “You are safe.” “You don’t’ have to take care of me, I will take care of you.” What ever it is, start changing talking to yourself with love and kindness instead of mistreating yourself. As you do this, you are starting to create a better relationship with yourself. You are beginning to claim the power to change your life and your feelings about yourself. You are the most important person in your life. Treat yourself that way.

copyright jennifer lehr 2008 Originally published at http://www.jenniferlehrmft.com/changing-your-inner-dialogue/