Watch your language

Negative phrases can become a habit, and then their meaning sinks deep into your subconscious, programming you to fail. What you need to do is replace this negative selfprogramming with positive messages. How often do you say one of the following phrases?

 I can’t do that.

 It always happens to me.

 I’m never lucky.

 No-one likes me or cares about me.

 Nothing good ever happens.

 There’s nowhere for me.

 I’m so stupid.

 It’s all my fault.

 I know this won’t work.

 I feel so awful.

These are just a few of the stock phrases that most of us trot out. We all have our favourites. What’s yours – and what does it say about you? Do you really believe you are unlovable, ignorant, guilty – a failure? If you keep saying so, you will make yourself believe it, and that’s one giant step towards making it true. But, in the same way, you can make yourself believe positive ideas about yourself, so try saying the following:

 I’m learning new skills.

 Good things happen.

 I’m actually quite lucky.

 I’m finding friends.

 I’m finding my place in life.

 I sometimes make mistakes and learn from them.

 I take responsibility where appropriate and put things right where I can.

 This may be difficult but I’m working on it.

 I’ve been in a difficult space, but that’s changing.