Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.
– Desmond Tutu

“Our self-talk has a tremendous influence on our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Yet, we often disregard it or at least underestimate its impact.” So writes Tara Well, PhD, in an online Psychology Today article.

She goes on to explain, “Many of us have a constant critical dialogue running in our heads. If we try to suppress it, it only gets stronger. Research shows that there are some specific ways to use self-talk to your benefit.”

Wells explains that finding resources to support positive inner dialogue, especially during times of challenge or stress, is very important to mental and emotional well-being.

In the introduction to Encouragement Every Day, Nancy Rosenow, explains that she created the book to provide a blueprint for daily encouraging self-talk:

“I’ve written each day’s encouragement as if I’m speaking to myself, but of course, it is meant for you just as much. Because I’ve written about what works for me, there will be some days when it may not hit the mark for you, and that’s as it should be. Please use what works and adapt whatever doesn’t. Feel free to read ahead, or look back on days that especially spoke to you. This is your encouragement to use as you please.

“Because I was an early childhood educator and administrator for most of my career, the first audience for this book is my fellow early care and education professionals. Even in the best of times, ours is a challenging profession. If these pages give you a lift before you begin your day, or after you’ve finished a long one, I’ll be so glad. I believe with my whole heart that ours is also one of the most gratifying and important professions in the world…

“Let’s tackle the year together. I hope there will be days when you open a page and find serendipity – just what you needed. When that happens, I’ll be smiling with you.”