self-talk

noun

ˌself-ˈtȯk 

: talk or thoughts directed at oneself

As we push through the pain during a race, it's natural to talk to ourselves. It's also natural to have an unpleasant conversation. Studies show that both negative and positive self-talk influence performance—you can guess which works best.

—Bicycling

… let's say a student said, "I'm having trouble learning these new techniques." The first thing I would do is probe into his self-talk. He's probably thinking, "I shouldn't be having so much trouble."

—Thomas J. Nardi

Neil Fiore, a motivational speaker … says the road to timely tax filing can be reached with a little positive self-talk.

—Kris Frieswick

Examples of self-talk in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Particularly in instances like these, replace negative self-talk with self-compassion. — Jasmine Johnson, CNBC, 29 Sep. 2026

One of the biggest barriers to self-advocacy is negative self-talk. — Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2026

The movie does an excellent job of showing viewers how Marshall uses positive self-talk to encourage himself and others. — Lynnette Nicholas, Parents, 14 Aug. 2026

The New Moon drifts through your 12th House of Solitude, offering space to release old worries and nourish your inner world with kind self-talk. — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 14 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1737, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-talk

• alcock
• beanstalk
• bedrock
• boardwalk
• catwalk
• cornstalk
• crosswalk
• deadlock
• feedstock
• fetlock
• flintlock
• goshawk