Positive self-talk has been instrumental in how I have learned to handle my MS symptoms and aches and pains. Without the power of self talk, I think my outlook would be bleak. When do I employ self-talk?
Examples of times I have used self-talk to motivate myself:
Maybe I do not feel like getting on the tread mill or going for a walk. If it is the time to get a movin’, I tell myself: “Come on, you will feel so much better when you get started. Do a half mile and see how you feel.”
Maybe I have papers to score and I do not want to get behind, then I might say: “Girl, you know the students are waiting for feedback, at least do one class and then rest and do the other. It is better than having a pile up!”
The dishes are in the sink and have been since last night: “The warm water will feel good on your hands, the kitchen sink will be cleared out, and you will have a clean slate to prepare the next meal.”
Your injection is needed. “Let’s go; you do not want to be a statistic of not keeping your injection schedule. You have never missed a dose; you can do it! Be proud of having done more three injections a week for 14 months!”
Simply by speaking in a calm and reassuring voice serves as a motivator. It is a very powerful tool to build and sustain better habits.
MS Fortunate 