The Art of Talking to Myself: A Modern Outlook on Mindful Communication

Some may perceive talking to oneself as a peculiar behaviour, but for many, it is a natural and beneficial activity. Self-talk, or intrapersonal communication, is a common and valuable tool for processing thoughts, managing emotions, and preparing for interactions. In this article, we explore the phenomenon of talking to oneself and how it can enhance our mental and emotional wellbeing.

Public Perception and Personal Experiences

One of my encounters with the public's perception of self-talk occurred when a group of visitors entered my home and expressed concern about my activity. It was a moment of self-realization—had I been silently mumbling away without their notice, or had I audibly voiced my thoughts aloud? My response, accompanied by a dose of pot, added an interesting twist to the conversation. The ensuing comments from my mother about interacting with myself later provided insight into a childhood filled with similar incidents, all involving myself or toy dolls taking on imagined roles.

Habitual Self-Talk and Home Life

In recent years, I have observed an increase in my self-talk while at home. Though I often engage in quiet conversations with myself, repeated to the point where my youngest child points it out, it's a practice I have adopted for various reasons. One primary reason is the rehearsal of upcoming conversations. By talking through scenarios, I ensure that I'm well-prepared and can communicate effectively. This is especially important considering that I have a brain injury, and my doctor emphasized the importance of effective communication, which involves both listening and speaking equally.

Modern Tools and Self-Talk

As technology advances, tools such as Bluetooth hearing devices have made self-talk less conspicuous. With these devices, there's no longer a need for others to recognize my inner monologue, and I can engage in my private conversations without concern. Interestingly, there have been instances where I've wondered if others were using their Bluetooth devices or talking to their own imaginary friends!

Public and Private Self-Talk

Even though I'm generally at home when I engage in this habit, there have been times when I've talked out loud in public. For instance, during a search for an item in the garage, my husband and I were mumbling to ourselves, and our employees seemed genuinely concerned. Their sweet inquiry, "Are you okay?" brought laughter and a sense of validation for my self-talk behavior. In such situations, I've never felt the need to disclose my habit, recognizing that people might find it unusual but not necessarily concerning.

Conclusion

Overall, the habit of talking to oneself is a normal and beneficial psychological practice, supporting communication skills and emotional processing. Whether dealing with internal dialogue, rehearsal for conversations, or handling personal emotions, self-talk is a valuable tool in our mental toolkit. Embracing this practice can lead to enhanced self-awareness and improved interpersonal skills. So, feel free to join me in my quiet conversations; after all, it might just improve your communication too!