Positive Self-Talk Practice Activity

This activity engages students in actively identifying negative self-talk and transforming these into positive affirmations, which is an essential strategy to boost self-esteem and mental well-being. The following are the guidelines and prompts for the activity:

Activity Overview

• Objective: Identify common negative self-talk patterns and collaboratively reframe them into positive affirmations.
• Duration: 5 minutes

Instructions

1. Individual Reflection:
   

   • Ask students to write down one or two negative phrases they often say to themselves. Examples might include "I can't do anything right" or "I'm not good enough."
     
     
     
     
     
     

2. Group Discussion:
   

   • Have students share one negative phrase with the class (voluntarily). Discuss how these phrases might impact self-esteem and mood.
     
     
     
     
     
     

3. Transformation:
   

   • In pairs or as a class, encourage students to transform each negative phrase into a positive affirmation. For example, "I can't do anything right" could become "I learn and grow from my mistakes."
     
     
     
     
     
     

4. Sharing Affirmations:
   

   • Ask students to share their positive affirmations and discuss how they might influence their mindset over time.
     
     
     
     
     
     

Follow-Up Questions

• How did changing the wording of the statement make you feel?
  
  
  
  
  
  
• What might be some challenges when trying to maintain positive self-talk?
  
  
  
  
  
  
• How can you remind yourself to use positive affirmations during stressful times?
  
  
  
  
  
  

By the end of the activity, students should have a greater awareness of their internal dialogue and a practical strategy to reframe negative thoughts into empowering affirmations.

Tip for Teachers: Provide a supportive environment where students feel comfortable sharing. Validate all responses and encourage continual practice throughout the week.

Guided Positive Self-Talk Script

Hello everyone,

Today, we’re going to take a few minutes to engage in a guided practice that will help us build positive self-talk habits. This practice is about being kind to ourselves and recognizing our inner strength. I invite each of you to find a comfortable position, close your eyes if you feel comfortable, and take a deep breath in... and out.

As we begin, let’s focus on welcoming calm and positive energy. Think about a moment when you felt proud of yourself or when you managed to overcome a challenge. Visualize that moment clearly in your mind.

Now, repeat these affirmations either out loud or silently in your head after me:

1. "I am capable and strong."

   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. "I choose to see the good in myself."

   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. "Every day, I grow more confident and resilient."

   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Take another deep breath in... and out. Notice how your body feels and allow any tension to slowly melt away.

Now, I’ll give you a moment of silence to reflect on these affirmations and how they make you feel. If any positive images or thoughts come to mind, hold onto them.

As we return to our regular awareness, gently open your eyes. I invite anyone who feels comfortable to share a thought or feeling that came up during this practice. Remember, this is a safe space to express your reflections on self-growth and positivity.

Thank you for participating in this guided positive self-talk session. Carry these affirmations with you, and remember that every day is a new opportunity to affirm your worth.

Let's take one final deep breath together...

When you're ready, we'll move on to our next activity or discussion.

Keep shining your positive light!