There are many people in the world who have never spoken a positive word over their life. I am not sure why, but I do know that the average adult says over 1,000 negative things about themselves every year. That sounds crazy, but I too am guilty of speaking negative things about myself and to myself. If I struggle with it, I am sure you do too. To be honest, I think most people could say 5,000 or 10,000 negative things about themselves in a year.
At some point, we have to exercise positive self-talk. King David penned these words in the Bible: "And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God" (1 Samuel 30:6). Yes, there it is. It's okay to talk to yourself, but you have to be careful HOW you talk to yourself. I have learned a negative mouth will never produce a positive life. Those words I speak about me and to me actually matter.
Here's some statements you should never say to yourself:
I am no good.
I can't do anything right.
No one will ever love me.
I am too young.
I am too old.
I don't have the money.
Today will be a terrible day.
I already know it won't happen for me.
I never know what to say.
I never get a break.
I wish I had never been born.
That's impossible.
I can't handle this.
I hate this time of year.
Those negative statements, and many more like it, do not produce anything positive in you. In fact, I believe they set the course for your life. The Bible declares, "The tongue can bring death or life ..." (Proverbs 18:21). The words you speak will bring life or death to your dreams, hopes, goals, and yes, even your destiny. Guard yourself from negative inner dialogue.
At some point, you have to evict the negative inner dialogue with some positive self-talk. If David had to encourage himself in the Lord, then I am sure we do too.
Here's some statements to declare over your life each day:
I am loved and valued by God.
I am gifted, talented, and capable.
I am liked by people.
I am stronger and smart.
I am called and anointed by God.
I am blessed.
I am focused, determined, and productive.
I am a great employee.
I am growing each day.
I am able to do more than I can imagine.
I am healed, healthy, and whole.
I am designed to excel.
I am the apple of God's eye.
I am able to do all things through Christ.
And my favorite declaration: I am good looking. Yes, sometimes you have to call things that are not as though they are. But on a serious note, how you think about yourself will shape how others think about you. Start speaking to who you believe you can be, not just where you currently are.
Words matter. Not just the words spoke to you, but the words spoken by you. You will never reach your God-given potential if you are always negative about yourself. So, start today with some positive declarations about YOU. And then watch how your day begins to move in the direction of your declaration.