Tuesday, January 27, 2026

CUT THE HARSH TALK TO SELF

 

The other day, I stopped, listened, and for the first time really heard— the harsh way I was talking to myself.

 

Me: “What a dumb thing to do, you!”

Self: “Really stupid. Don’t do that again.”

Me: “Only an idiot like you could do this.”

Self: “A moron. That’s what you are.”

 

What occurred to me right then was that what I should not do again was talk to self this way.

 

Old habits die hard. New habits, such as paying attention to self-flagellation, take time and resolve to stick and stay. So, the first order of business was to pay attention and Not. Do. This.

 

There’s an extra bonus to my new resolve. I find the harsh observations of others have softened and rounded also.

 

Kindness is contagious. Start with you.


5 comments:

Vijaya said...

Words have power. The stories we tell ourselves make a difference. I often feel inadequate due to the migraines--I can't do so many things others take for granted. I have to continually practice gratitude and kindness.

Evelyn said...

Good reminder, Mirka. Thank you.

Janie Junebug said...

I'm not as nasty to myself as I used to be. My brain chemistry has changed with the appropriate medication and I've been divorced since 2010. When I was married, if I felt good, then my husband was sure to bring me down. I'm grateful I no longer endure that weight on me.

Love,
Janie

MirkaK said...

Glad you are deleting the harsh talk. Who among us hasn’t dealt with that negative voice?

Mirka Breen said...

Long ago, I figured out whose voice I was channeling. Now my task is to say "NO" to it.