To Argue With Oneself: The Six Steps

When we have a pessimistic outlook on ourselves, we tend to be harsh and overly critical of our own abilities to perform the work that we do. This tends to take a toll on us and can cause unwanted self-doubt and self-loathing that may hinder our productivity. As such, one must overcome this pessimistic outlook in order to grow and succeed in one’s career. A good method to do so is to learn how to “win yourself over” through the process of arguing with oneself.

The process of talking to one’s “inner voice” in order to argue with themselves is a process that you can use to dispel any negative assumptions of yourself that you may have. Find a tone of voice for your inner thoughts to take form, and use that voice as a persona to argue about the negative thoughts that you’re having. Make your inner voice firm, ensuring that the argument you’ll be having with yourself is a tough but fruitful one. Keep in mind that while criticizing yourself, it’s best to be sharp and critical, but fair. Be truthful to yourself and answer all questions and responsibilities that you bring up for yourself.

With this in mind, let’s take a look at the six steps you can take in order to win yourself over an unhealthy belief.

1.            What is your belief?

To begin, ask yourself about your own pessimistic beliefs that you’re trying to change. Knowing this is the first step to change this aspect about yourself. Once you understand the pessimistic view you have about yourself, you can move to the next step.

2.            What evidence is available to challenge this view?

Find the evidence within yourself to challenge this negative view. Compile all the things that you know aren’t true about yourself and use them to contradict this view. These views of yourself are something you must confront and acknowledge before moving on to the next step.

3.            If there’s not enough evidence, what other explanations are there?

You can always find other explanations for the situation that you believe yourself in. Whether it be factors such as pressure from other people or self-inflicted standards, it’s best to compile a list of explanations and select the ones that are true for your situation