YOU can do it! Boost Your Behaviour with 2nd Person Self-Talk
“Keep going — you can do it!”
“You’ve done this before — c’mon, you can do it again.”
And the popular, “You got this!”
These are example phrases we may say to ourselves when we are taking an exam, speaking at a conference, or working out at the gym. Or anytime we’re faced with a challenge.
For ninety-six percent of adults, using self-talk — our inner dialogue, helps to boost motivation, push through a difficult situation and/or stay focused.
So, how does using YOU help?
Studies have shown that 2nd person self-talk influences our behvaiour and our intentions. (Albarracín, 2010, October; Albarracín, 2011, January; Senay, Albarracin, & Noguchi, 2010).
By using the word YOU, when engaging in self-talk, it helps our mind to view a situation differently. This in turn influences how we respond.
It also influences our attitude toward a task or goal. And it can go both ways, influencing negatively and positively.
The reason why 2nd person self-talk is so powerful is because it helps with self-regulation. Meaning, it levels out our mind so we can think clearly and approach a situation from a different point of view.
