TL;DR:
- Curate a positive self-talk playlist to shift your mindset, much like Rachel changes the car radio station.
- Use affirmations, achievements, and visual inspiration to create an uplifting “station” to turn to when negativity strikes.
- Teach students and educators how to model positivity and build resilience through this powerful habit.
Whenever I drive my daughter, Rachel one thing never changes: the moment she hops in the car, she reaches for the radio and switches it to her favorite country music station. It doesn’t matter what was playing before—whether it was a talk show or a different genre of music—Rachel knows exactly what she wants to hear. This little ritual got me thinking about the power of a positive self-talk playlist in our lives, especially regarding our self-talk and mindset.
The Power of Choice in Our Daily Lives
Rachel’s instinct to change the station isn’t just about her musical taste; it is a smart reminder that we can turn up or turn down the noise around us. During the day it is not uncommon to be bombarded by negativity—whether it is a tough email, a critical comment, or just an off day. Low moments can drown out the positive messages we desperately need. Just like Rachel who turns down the unwanted noise to make space for the music that lifts her, we can also learn to adjust our inner dialogue.
Self-Talk: The Inner Radio Station
Think of your self-talk as the radio station playing in your mind. Sometimes the music or podcast is uplifting and inspiring, but other times it can be filled with disheartening tracks that seem to play on repeat. Just as Rachel can switch to her favorite songs, we can be intentional about changing the station in our heads. Unfortunately changing the station is not a one-time task, but something that needs to be done multiple times a day. When we face setbacks, it is too easy to fall into negative self-talk. One critical comment can overshadow a week’s worth of successes.
We are not passive listeners; we can curate our experiences, thoughts, and emotions like we curate our playlists. By actively establishing a positive self-talk playlist, we can shift our mindset, embrace challenges, and inspire others. Click To TweetCreating a Positive Self-Talk Playlist
Inspired by Rachel’s actions, I realized we can create our “positive self-talk playlist.” This playlist isn’t just about music; it’s a collection of reminders, affirmations, and evidence of our connections, dreams, purpose, faith, service, and achievements. Here’s how to get started.
1. Compile Positive Affirmations
Write down affirmations that resonate with you—simple statements like “I am ______” or “I’ve overcome challenges before.” Post these where you’ll see them daily, like on your bathroom mirror, notebook, classroom, or other familiar place.
2. Create a document on your phone, or journal of achievements, dreams, connections, and purpose.
Keep a journal where you document moments that stand out, big or small. Write about moments when you made a difference or tackled challenges. At the start of the day or when negativity creeps in, change the station and revisit this journal to remind yourself of what you’re capable of.
3. Visual Inspiration
Use platforms like Pinterest to collect quotes, images, and ideas that inspire you. Whether it’s motivational quotes from people you admire or peaceful images, a visual playlist can serve as a “station” to turn to when you need a lift.
4. Utilize Feedback Positively
Instead of letting negative feedback linger, balance it with positive notes. In your classroom, keep a file of encouraging messages from students or colleagues. This tangible evidence can serve as a powerful reminder of your impact.
Implementing the Playlist in Educational Settings
Creating a positive self-talk playlist can transform not just your mindset, but also the atmosphere in educational settings. Imagine the benefit of a classroom filled with positive energy, where students are encouraged to share their successes and support one another. This kind of environment encourages resilience and learning for everyone involved. Just as Rachel does not wait to see what “comes on the radio” she takes charge of what she wants to listen to.
For Educators
- Establish a Positive Culture: Start each day with a moment of positivity. Share a success story or read an inspiring quote, a joke, or a powerful moment in history to set a positive tone for the day.
- Model Positive Self-Talk: Your words matter. Show students how to handle challenges with positive self-talk and coping strategies. Model what it looks like to speak well to yourself while studying, feeling busy, making a mistake, or taking on a new project/unit. Students will learn to mirror this behavior.
For Students
- Develop Personal Affirmations: Encourage students to come up with affirmations and generate a list on a shared Google Document or poster in the classroom.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Teach students to recognize and celebrate small successes, whether finishing a project or managing a night of homework after a meet or late game. This practice builds confidence and a positive self-image.
- Create a Supportive Network: Encourage students to lean on each other for support. Study groups or casual check-ins can remind them that they are not alone.
Play an Active Role
When I think about Rachel’s choice of music, it reminds me that her actions represent an important life lesson. We are not passive listeners; we can curate our experiences, thoughts, and emotions like we curate our playlists.
By actively establishing a positive self-talk playlist, we can shift our mindset, embrace challenges, and inspire others.
The choice is ours. We can let negativity dominate our airwaves or we can turn the dial, select a station that uplifts us, and create a life filled with positivity and resilience. What will your self-talk playlist look like? It’s time to start curating your soundtrack for success!
About Laura McDonell
Laura McDonell is a dedicated high school English teacher and educational leader with over 22 years of experience. Passionate about empowering students to realize what’s possible for them, Laura inspires both students and educators through innovative strategies and engaging professional development. She believes in creating dynamic learning environments where every student can achieve their full potential with support and encouragement. In addition to her work in the classroom, Laura is a mom of three and a marathon runner, embodying the perseverance and commitment she instills in her students.
