Negative self-talk is toxic to the brain...I often hear from people who proclaim that they cannot make the changes that they would like to see in their lives. "I just can't do it", "I can't exercise that much", I can't stop eating______(fill in the blank)". "I will probably fail, so what's the use of trying."
We all have that inner voice that makes critical, negative, or punishing comments about ourselves that makes us feel defeated or hopeless. And most times, you think that you are being realistic about yourself. But this inner dialogue with yourself limits your ability to believe that you have the potential to achieve positive changes.
Research has found that excessive ruminations of negativity is linked to an increased risk of mental health problems, including depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, psychosis, and OCD.
Focusing on your negative thoughts and telling yourself that you "can't do it" will only lead to decreased motivation and helplessness.
This brings us to the science of neuroplasticity. The brain has a capacity to adapt and change over time by creating new neurons and building new networks, It has the capacity to be shaped, molded or altered. It can continue to grow and evolve in response to new experiences. But you can be in a "rut" because of your consistent negativity. This means that you have the capacity to change dysfunctional patterns of thinking.
If you think that you are in a "rut", maybe it is time to "plow". View your rut the same way you view the hard, dry, and unreceptive dirt that is not capable of growing anything. Replacing those bad habits with healthier habits, one day at a time (sometimes even one hour at a time) is what changes our brain and starts plowing up the hard rut.
James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, states that behavior that is rewarded will be repeated. What is ONE unhealthy habit that you would like to change today? Speak those positive and affirming words to yourself because you are worth it.
Liz Fattore
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