Lately, my inner critic has been a little bit louder than usual. So I've been exploring different ways to practice and incorporate positive self-talk in my everyday life. Positive self-talk can be a powerful way to support mental health, boost self-confidence, and promote healthy ways to manage stress. While there are numerous techniques, these are five ways to get started:

1. Embrace Positive Affirmations: Positive affirmations are powerful statements that help rewire your thoughts and beliefs. If you find yourself feeling down or battling negative thoughts, try repeating positive affirmations such as "I am capable," "I am deserving of love," or "I am resilient." These phrases can help shift your mindset and boost your mood.

2. Treat Yourself Like You Would a Friend: Often, we tend to be harsher on ourselves than we would be on our friends. When negative self-talk arises, ask yourself, "What would I say to a friend in this situation?" Treat yourself with the same kindness, compassion, and understanding you would give to your friends. 

3. Practice Gratitude: Take a moment each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for. It could be as simple as a beautiful sunset, pets, or plants. Sometimes, reflecting on these can provide a sense of peace and ground us in the present moment. 

4. Learn to Identify Negative Thinking:  Become aware of your negative thought patterns and challenge them. For instance, if you catch yourself engaging in self-criticism or self-doubt, pause and ask yourself, is this thought helpful or accurate?

5. Take Time for Self Care: Sometimes, negative thoughts can be more prominent when our needs are not being met and we are not prioritizing self-care. Whether it's taking a relaxing bath, indulging in your favourite hobby, or simply having some quiet time to reflect, make sure to carve out moments for yourself. 

Overall, positive self-talk can be a powerful tool to build a strong sense of self-love that allows you to flourish and reach your full potential. If you are looking for more inspiration, check out these affirmations you can try or the Wellness Deck for more ways to care for your wellbeing.