Defending Your Life
I’ve caught myself arguing against myself in the court of my mind. It’s like I’m a lawyer, and my job is to convict myself of being lazy. I always had a couple dozen arguments ready to go. I could pull up that time I gave up on my exercise routine or the fact that I dropped out of learning something I knew was going to be useful. I could pull the files up about how I’ve made poor choices for my mental health. These scenarios were always at the ready. But they weren’t helping. They were just bringing me down.
It was time to switch sides in court. I had to start defending the case that I am a quality, worthwhile person. What can I tell the judge? What stories can I conjure up and what promises can I make to the jury about the life I will lead if I get a “second chance”?
Switching sides in the court of my mind has been a game-changer. Instead of beating myself up over past mistakes and failures, I look to focus on my strengths, accomplishments, and potential. This shift has helped me create a more positive and supportive inner dialogue, making me feel better and boosting my productivity.
It’s not about ignoring my flaws or pretending I don’t have room for improvement. It’s about recognizing that I am more than my mistakes. By being kinder to myself and celebrating my worth, I can build a healthier mindset that supports my growth and happiness.
ACTION: When you catch yourself engaging in negative self-talk, become your own defense attorney. Spend one minute recalling your achievements, positive choices you’ve made, and the progress you’ve achieved, no matter how small. Make a conscious effort to focus on these positives and remind yourself that you are capable and deserving of success and happiness.
