The words we use to describe ourselves make a difference in what we end up doing.

Think about the words you use to describe what you want.

There are four stages in the process.

1. I need… (acceptance)
2. I can… (realization)
3. I will… (commitment)
4. I am… (actualization)

For example, if we’re talking about weight loss, one’s self-talk progresses through the three stages like this:

1. “I need to lose weight.”
2. “I can lose weight.”
3. “I will lose weight.”
4. “I am losing weight.”

Acceptance is usually painful so most people try to avoid it. However, once accepted, the next step is to find support to reinforce that it can be done.

After realization comes commitment. [Read more…]