We often have a mean inner voice and those inner judgmental or toxic thoughts can bubble to the surface and make us second guess ourselves. Letting go of these toxic thoughts and replacing them with healthier alternatives will help get you to a more positive state of mind that will give you a better quality of life. It’s not always easy to change our thinking, but it is so worth it to do the work.

So let’s go through some of the top toxic thoughts people have:

1. Do They Like Me?

On some level, everyone wants to be liked. You may wonder if your co-workers or your boss like you, or even your friends and family. It may not even matter whether they tell you every day that they like you. Once this toxic thought enters your mind, it sticks like super glue.When you catch yourself thinking this thought, replace it with reasons why you like yourself. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter whether anyone likes you or not. If you’re living your best life as your authentic self, that’s the only thing that matters. I love the quote:

You can be the sweetest, ripest peach and not everyone likes peaches.

2. Did I Make a Mistake?

Everyone’s made their fair share of mistakes, but it’s much easier to be hard on yourself for your own. Whether what you did was big or small, tormenting yourself with wondering if something was a mistake will only make you feel miserable.Instead, give yourself grace. No one is perfect, so you can’t expect yourself to be either. No one else is keeping track of how long you can go without messing up. If a mistake happens, breathe through it and do your best not to repeat it again. That’s all anyone can do.

3. What Will Go Wrong?

Getting into a situation that’s new can be scary. It doesn’t matter if you’re bungee jumping off a cliff or starting a new business. That moment where you’re trying to step outside your comfort zone is intimidating.The habit of wondering what will go wrong when you’re about to try something new stems from rising anxiety, which takes a physical toll on your body. Switch things up and ask yourself the opposite question instead. How will that new thing add joy to your life or give you a new experience? It’ll make the situation seem less scary and lead to more positive adventure in your life.

4. What if I Fail?

Failure, like making a mistake, is unavoidable. Remind yourself that everyone fails. It’s how we learn and get stronger.  Instead of contemplating how your inevitable demise will happen, focus on how you will succeed. And know that if you do “fail,” it’s just an opportunity to re frame the situation as a chance to grow. It’s part of being human.

5. Am I Good Enough?

It’s good to be challenged to grow and be the best you can be. This mind-set crosses a line when you begin to wonder if you’re good enough for everyday things. In order to defeat this toxic thought, you’ll need to work on your self-confidence. Do things like affirm your successes, no matter how small they are. Set small goals and celebrate when you reach them. Small acts of self-care go a long way in building your self-confidence, so you don’t ever have to wonder if you’re good enough anymore.