Is Talking to Yourself Normal?

Engaging in self-talk, or talking to oneself, can offer several psychological benefits. Speaking aloud to oneself can improve concentration and task performance; for instance, verbalizing instructions or thoughts can aid in better understanding and executing tasks. Self-talk also helps in managing emotions by providing a means to process feelings and reduce stress.

Addressing oneself in the third person during self-talk has been shown to create psychological distance, making it easier to control emotions.  Engaging in positive self-dialogue fosters self-compassion, leading to greater mindfulness and reduced self-criticism. Individuals who practice supportive self-talk tend to exhibit higher levels of self-kindness. Additionally, positive self-talk can enhance motivation by reinforcing one’s capabilities and determination; athletes, for example, often use self-encouragement to improve focus and performance.  Incorporating mindful self-talk into daily routines can thus contribute to better mental performance and emotional well-being.

To read about the benefits of talking to yourself, as well as when it may be harmful, from a recent piece by AARP, CLICK HERE.