How are you talking to yourself?

Take a moment to become aware of the thoughts and words that are going round and round in your head. When you first do this you might be very surprised by all this inner mental activity. Notice how often you are self-judgemental and self-doubting. Listen for the voice of your inner critic (it’s the one that never lets you off the hook). Once you become aware of this negative self-talk you can replace it with powerful positive affirmations. For example, whenever you hit a confidence crisis, hear the doubt in your mind and override it with an affirmation such as: I can do this.

But don’t wait for a crisis before you start thinking yourself up rather than down. Surround yourself with positive affirmations (written on card in your handbag, on your desk, on the dashboard of your car or on your bathroom wall!). And make sure that you check-in to your thoughts regularly throughout the day to lift yourself and your mood. Positive thoughts about yourself will make you feel and act like a winner every time.