To Change Your Life, Change Your Story

“I’m too old to learn that new skill.” “I just can’t lose weight.” We may tell ourselves versions of these phrases when we are facing tough challenges. But did you know that the inner language we use can affect the outcome? Those two phrases are examples of “problem stories.” They portray us not only as victims, but also as part of the problem. But if we tell ourselves, “That skill is tough but it is important,” or “That extra weight is affecting my self-esteem,” then the problem is outside of us. Research shows that people feel more empowered to solve these external problems than those where we are victims. So if you want to create change in your life, think about the stories you are telling yourself. Are you part of the solution or the problem?