The way we speak to ourselves and about ourselves makes a big difference to our mindset and how we behave. It can have a real impact on our confidence and our ability to deal with stress and setbacks. And we can start to believe and act on the things we tell ourselves. 

The good news, though, is that it works both ways. If we speak to ourselves and about ourselves in a negative way and using negative language, it can make us feel less certain about ourselves and our abilities. Which can lead to us feeling low and less resilient.

But if we reframe our language so that it’s more helpful and more positive, it can help us to feel less anxious. It can help us to think more flexibly and help us to consider options for ourselves. We can feel more in control – and overall, feel more confident. 

One very simple way you can reframe negative thoughts is just adding the word ‘yet’. 

So, to give you some examples (based on negative language I hear only too regularly): 

“I can’t do it” becomes “I can’t do it, yet”
“I am not ready” becomes “I am not ready, yet” 
“I don’t know enough” becomes “I don’t know enough, yet”
“I’m not strong enough” becomes “I’m not strong enough, yet”

Adding ‘yet’ turns these statements from perceived barriers and blockers into possibilities. They are no longer statements that close things down. They open us up to future opportunities. 

Only 3 letters. A tiny word. But one with big potential to change your frame of mind. 

Try adding ‘yet’ and see if it changes your perspective.