Why Talking to Yourself Is Not Only Normal, but Good for You
Modern psychology shows us that talking to yourself isn’t just common—it’s actually beneficial. This habit can be a sign of clear thinking, strong problem-solving skills, and even an ability to manage your emotions on your own.
People who have a developed inner dialogue often possess powerful traits, such as creativity and discipline. So the next time you find yourself whispering your thoughts, remember: you’re not caught in an awkward moment of solitude—maybe you’re just tapping into some unsuspected inner strengths.
Boosting Confidence, Motivation, and Creativity—With a Little Self-Talk
Ever found yourself giving a pep talk in front of the mirror before an important meeting or presentation? If so, that’s more than just a little ritual.
Whenever you talk to yourself, you’re basically coaching yourself. You reinforce your skills and your confidence, reminding yourself that you’re capable and ready to face whatever’s ahead.
And this isn’t just for big moments. Even in your daily routine, inner dialogue can become a powerful tool for boosting your self-esteem and solidifying your trust in your abilities.
In fact, a 2009 study examined the impact of motivational self-talk on the self-confidence, anxiety, and performance of young athletes, suggesting that inner talk can genuinely increase confidence.
The next time you prep for something big, don’t hesitate to give yourself a pep talk. Your words have power—especially when you’re their audience!
I start by explaining things as if I were talking to someone else. Often, ideas unblock, and the right words come, giving me a better energy to work with.
Inner dialogue then becomes a true tool for mental clarity and generating new ideas, as if you always had a creative partner beside you. A 2023 study explored the link between frequent verbal inner dialogue, emotional intelligence, and creativity, and suggested that self-talk might be tied to greater creative potential.
If you’re stuck on a creative project, try talking yourself through it. You might be surprised by the original solutions and ideas that crop up.
Are you a regular at the gym? Maybe you’ve noticed: when the last few reps feel impossible, a bit of inner encouragement can get you over the finish line— »Come on, you can do it! »
It may sound simple, but it works. In fact, a 2010 study identified interrogative self-talk as a key motivator behind goal-directed behavior, suggesting this kind of dialogue can boost intrinsic motivation.
Hearing motivating words—even if you’re the one saying them—reinforces your determination and helps you overcome challenges. Athletes use this trick to improve their performance, but really, it works for any situation needing a little push.
- A 1993 study explored the link between inner dialogue and self-awareness, suggesting that self-talk can be crucial in acquiring insights into yourself.
The Self-Awareness Perk: Why Monologues Aren’t Just For the Theatre
I remember the first time I realized I was talking to myself. I was sitting at my desk at home, struggling with a complicated project. Frustrated, I caught myself asking out loud:
« What am I doing wrong? »
That’s when it hit me—I was having a dialogue with myself. And guess what? That little exchange helped me step back and look at the situation with a lot more clarity.
Psychologists say that talking to yourself is a sign of self-awareness, a cornerstone of emotional intelligence. By voicing my thoughts, I was becoming aware of my mental patterns and how they affected what I was doing.
Next time you catch yourself monologuing, don’t dismiss it. Listen to what you’re saying and think about what it reveals about your own self-awareness.
Back to that tough project: after a bit of reflection, I started talking through the problem out loud. To my own surprise, I found a solution way faster than if I’d just sat there thinking silently.
Speaking your thoughts aloud acts like a cognitive catalyst—it helps you sort, organize, and refine your ideas, almost like having a constructive conversation with yourself. In fact, a 2017 study suggests that inner dialogue can help improve concentration and attention, while reducing the negative effects of stress.
Thinking Out Loud: A Strategy for Solving Problems (and Not Just Grocery Shopping)
Psychology suggests that people who regularly talk to themselves often develop better problem-solving abilities, since they can externalize their thoughts and examine situations from different angles.
In 2011, psychologists Gary Lupyan and Daniel Swingley showed that self-talk can actually improve focus and efficiency in daily tasks. Their experiment had participants search for items in a supermarket. Those who repeated the name of the item out loud found it faster than those who didn’t.
This internal dialogue is like your own personal GPS, guiding you and keeping you focused on the target. If you catch yourself muttering instructions or reminders—don’t worry, it’s not weird: it’s a natural strategy to stay on task and be more effective.
Regulating Emotions: Your Always-On-Call Therapist
When I feel upset or stressed, talking to myself helps me manage my emotions better. It lets me step back, analyze what I’m feeling with more clarity, and figure out calmer, more rational solutions.
Psychology backs this up. Self-talk can help regulate emotions by offering a different perspective on a stressful situation. It’s a bit like having a therapist always on hand, ready to help clarify your thoughts and feelings.
These seven strengths—self-awareness, problem-solving skills, improved focus, stronger self-confidence, creative spark, and higher motivation—are often present in those who keep up a regular inner conversation.
So, the next time you find yourself chatting away with, well, yourself, remember: it’s not strange or ridiculous. On the contrary, it’s a helpful habit that reveals some unsuspected inner strengths.
I’ve always known I’d end up writing someday, since it’s one of my passions. I started my working life with an apprenticeship in the hospitality business and earned my diploma as a waitress. I still pick up the occasional shift, but what really inspires me are human relationships and psychology. But I also really enjoy drawing and painting. I’m a passionate advocate for women’s rights worldwide, and for the place women should occupy in society.
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
