With the advent of technology, we’re constantly bombarded by notifications and something to do. Life continues to propel us forward at full speed, often without our consent. When we feel like we’ve lost control we need to
— PAUSE —
Pause… and take a breath.
When we run fast, we often forget about ourselves. That’s why a conversation with ourselves without anything vying for our attention is so important. The mental break of just pausing is powerful as it gives nothing control of ourselves and allows us, for one moment, to regain control.
The more we pause, the more we regain control. Sometimes, when we pause – we should engage in self-dialogue to check in on things and think things through. Where are we? What do we need to do? Have a conversation with yourself, and enjoy it.
Internal Monologging
The ability to talk to yourself is a skill that is rooted in purpose. Those who bypass the skill building aspect are often labeled as “just talking to themselves”. The important part to note is that we don’t have conversations with ourselves just to pass the time. Establishing a purpose for an internal monologue creates a foundation and guide to solve a problem or work through some feelings.
Maybe it’s a life changing event we need to process. Or, maybe we just need to work through a first date gone wrong and how we could’ve done better. In theatre or TV, it’s an important soliloquy. But note, in theatre, the soliloquy shines the spotlight on one thing to focus your attention. Purposefully drawing you in to ensure it commands your attention. Simply because….it’s that important. To converse with yourself means that you’re up front, perhaps a bit rude, but the most truthful you’ll ever be. Truth with a bit of purpose, means you’re pursuing self-awareness which makes you a better human being in my opinion.
Why I like self-reflection
Conversations may vary from person to person but I usually have several types of conversations with myself. Some tend to be rooted in reality, while others allow me to dream grandiose thoughts. After all, why not continue to dream big as an adult? It’s not reserved exclusively for children.
Within these conversations with yourself, you are actively creating a framework or a path towards what you’d like to achieve. Recently, I’ve had a lot of conversations with myself on maximizing the amount of good days I can create for myself to limit the bad days. The reason? No one likes me on a bad day, and I just don’t like bad days. Pretty simple.
Without a self-conversation though, I’m not sure if I could just “do it” and “get it done” magically out of thin air. It’s a pause in my chaotic life to reflect and be honest. In some ways, it’s therapeutic. Either way, it’s an essential part of my being and I notice my life go off the rails without it.