Addy Osmani’s Post

"Change the way you speak about yourself and you can change your life.⁠ What you are not changing, you are also choosing" Often, it is underestimated how the words we choose to describe ourselves can significantly affect our mindset, behavior, and ultimately, our lives. The words we choose in these internal conversations, particularly when speaking about ourselves, significantly impact us. Bruce Lee, the legendary martial artist said, "Change the way you speak about yourself and you can change your life. What you are not changing, you are also choosing." The Power of Self-Talk Our inner dialogue shapes our perception of who we are, our capabilities, and our limitations. If we talk negatively about ourselves, it can erode our self-confidence, lead to self-doubt, and limit our potential. On the other hand, positive self-talk boosts our self-esteem, encourages self-efficacy, and propels us toward our aspirations. This isn't about mere positive affirmations (or building up a false narrative in our minds) but about a truthful, optimistic internal narrative. Instead of labeling yourself as "incapable" or "unworthy," focus on your efforts, growth, and resilience. Remember, it's not about unrealistic positive thinking but constructive self-talk. Choosing to Change Lee's words also remind us, "What you are not changing, you are also choosing." In life, inertia can be an invisible enemy. We may complain about our circumstances, but if we're not taking steps to change them, we're passively choosing them. This part of the equation is all about making active choices, about stepping out of our comfort zones and asserting our power to shape our lives. Making the Shift So how can we translate this understanding into practice? Here are a few strategies: Conscious Self-Talk: Develop an awareness of your internal dialogue. Notice how you talk about yourself. If you find negativity seeping in, consciously reframe those thoughts into more positive and constructive ones. Embrace Growth Mindset: Rather than viewing your abilities as fixed, adopt a growth mindset. See challenges as opportunities for learning and mistakes as stepping stones towards progress. Active Change: When faced with unfavorable circumstances, identify what you can do to change them. Remember, choosing not to act is still a choice. Patience and Perseverance: Changing habitual thought patterns takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and keep persevering. Remember, the language we use when we talk about ourselves is not just a reflection of our reality; it also plays a significant role in shaping that reality. By mindfully changing the way we speak about ourselves and actively choosing to bring about changes, we can drive our lives in the direction we desire. Change your self-talk, change your life. Illustration credit: GoLimitless #productivity #motivation #growth #learning