Stage 2 · Lesson 7 of 7
Talk to yourself like a friend
A simple habit pulls this stage together. When you notice harsh self-talk, ask: "Would I say this to a friend I respect?" If not, what would you say instead?
Usually it is something honest and kind: "That presentation was rough in the middle, and you handled the questions well. Practise the opening next time." Notice the shape: what went wrong, what went right, and one next step.
Write a few of these replies down so they are ready when the critic gets loud. Over weeks, many people find their inner voice slowly changes.
Common trapusing kind self-talk to avoid looking at real problems. A good friend tells you the truth, gently, and helps you improve.
A question to check yourself and an AI practice session come when you add the roadmap to your account. Add it
Resources for this stage
Start with
- GuideFreeSelf-Compassion (Dr Kristin Neff)
Kristin Neff
Kristin Neff's free self-compassion exercises and the research behind them
Practise
- moodgymPaid
A free online CBT programme for working through unhelpful thoughts step by step
Short, research-based practices, including self-compassion and gratitude exercises
Also worth your time
Struggling right now? If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, contact local emergency services or a crisis line: Find a helpline (any country), Umang (Pakistan), Tele-MANAS, 14416 (India).