How Self-Talk Shapes Our Potential
Tuning Into That Voice
Hello Potential Seekers,
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the invisible narratives running through our minds — those constant whispers that shape how we see ourselves, our abilities, and our potential. You know what I’m talking about: that voice that casually comments on everything from our work performance to our relationships, often posing as “fact” when it’s really just opinion.
Self-talk has been a key area of growth for me over the years. I used to dismiss it as unimportant, thinking that my thoughts were just fleeting impressions without much impact on my life. But as I dug deeper, I realized just how much that internal dialogue influenced my actions, my confidence, and ultimately, my outcomes.
Growing up in foster care and struggling with my weight, I was often made fun of, and the negative self-talk that stemmed from those experiences became deeply ingrained. Even after I transformed my body and lost almost 90 lbs. I still found myself battling that voice telling me I wasn't enough. Even after becoming obsessed with fitness and nutrition to the point of becoming a competitive bodybuilder, those old narratives didn’t disappear.
To be honest, it still lingers at times but recognizing it for what it is—a story, not a fact—has been a crucial step toward freedom and growth.
More recently, I came across a Jim Rohn video that I thought was super valuable. In it, he broke down the categories of self-talk in a way that made everything so clear. He gives example after example of effective self -talk vs. destructive. He described how our beliefs about ourselves, our potential, our money, our relationships, and even our abilities are shaped by that inner voice. And here’s the kicker: most of that negative chatter goes completely unnoticed. It narrates our lives as if it’s gospel truth, when really, it’s just a story we’re telling ourselves.
This realization reminded me of how often I’ve caught myself saying things like, “I’m just not good at that,” or “I’ll never be able to pull this off.” These weren’t facts—they were limiting beliefs disguised as truths. But recognizing that voice and challenging it has been transformative. Each time I catch it, I ask myself, “Is this really true? Or is it just a story I’ve gotten comfortable telling myself?” More often than not, it’s the latter.
So, here’s my encouragement for you this week: start tuning into that voice. Notice how it speaks to you about your abilities, your worth, your future. When you catch a limiting belief, challenge it. Ask yourself: What would I say to a friend in this situation? Then, start being that friend to yourself.
If you’re curious about Jim Rohn’s insights, here’s the video:
It’s a resource worth revisiting whenever you need a reminder that your thoughts are not facts—and you need the scripts for more empowering statements to say to yourself. There are also MANY more videos of his speeches that are more drawn out, humorous, where he is entertaining and story-telling while being wise and straight forward. Remember, they’re just stories you have the power to rewrite.
Actionable Strategy for the Week: Tune into Your Inner Voice
Notice Your Inner Voice: Spend 10 minutes daily observing your thoughts. What’s the narrative? Is it empowering or limiting?
Watch the Jim Rohn Video: Focus on how his messages challenge your current self-talk. What new perspectives can you apply?
Reframe a Limiting Thought: Choose one negative thought and replace it with a positive affirmation. For example: If you’re afraid to take on a new opportunity or feel like you’re not good enough, replace it with: “I am capable of handling new challenges and growing through this experience.”
Here is an additional resource from David Bayer’s book A Changed Mind: Go Beyond Self Awareness Rewire Your Brain & Reengineer Your Reality: (www.davidbayer.com/decision-matrix)
If you click above you will get free access to a list of limiting beliefs as a printable PBF where you can find your limiting beliefs, check them off, and actively rewrite them.
Track Your Progress: Check in daily. How often do you catch your old narrative? Find these reframes and reframe it consciously.
End of Week Reflection: Look back on your week. How has your new narrative impacted your thoughts, feelings, and actions?
Thank you for being part of this journey with me. I’m constantly learning, growing, and finding new ways to break free from the narratives that have held me back. I hope this email helps you do the same.
Until next time, stay curious and keep evolving.
Todd Smith
Evolving Potential Collective