When embarking on the journey of decluttering, it's crucial to treat yourself with kindness and compassion. Negative self-talk can often become a familiar soundtrack playing on repeat in our minds. But, I need you to stop that type of talk. Criticism is ineffective. It has never helped anyone get anything done in a productive and positive way.
I believe it is human nature to have a running dialogue in our head, but it is also within our ability to flip the script. The next time you catch yourself in a cycle of self-criticism, take a moment to pause. Interrupt the pattern by physically engaging with yourself – clap your hands, shake your head, jump up and down a few times, take a drink of water, or give yourself a comforting hug. Another thing you can do is change the feeling in the room. Put on some fun music, let in fresh air by opening a window, light a candle or mist a lightly scented room spray into the space. I encourage you to take it a step further and imagine speaking those same words to a cherished friend. Would you be as harsh with them as you are with yourself? Likely not.
As you become more attuned to these moments of self-beratement, you'll find it easier to break free from them. Replace those unkind words with gentler ones and redirect your inner dialogue toward positivity.
Remember, loving yourself comes first. Be gentle with yourself as you work towards improvement. Even if you decide to take a break or rest, honor that choice as an act of self-respect and self-love. It's the best gift you can give yourself in that moment.