ARE THERE BENFITS TO TALKING TO ONESELF?

ARE THERE BENFITS TO TALKING TO ONESELF?
Wednesday, April 2, 2025 by LINDA WOOD RONDEAU

Have you ever had a conversation with yourself while looking in the mirror? I have. Are their benefits to talking to oneself?

One of the funniest books I read as a younger person was my grandmother’s copy of I Talk to Myself A Lot. I could picture the author going around her house talking to herself about what she was doing, where she wanted to go, and what she wanted to buy at the store. I always told people that I talk to myself a lot because I wanted to be sure someone intelligent was listening.

People often talk to themselves for various reasons. My husband often yells at himself, “Stupid!” Or he might say, “That’s not what I was trying to do.” I’m in the other room, so I know the comments were not directed at me. I hadn’t done anything yet.

I talk to myself sometimes when no one’s around to refocus. “Why did I come into the kitchen?” Or when I’m trying to find something, I’ll say to myself, “I know I put it somewhere.” Like my husband, I chide myself when I’ve made a mistake.

I became curious and researched to make sure that these talking episodes I have in the mirror are not signs of dementia. Turns out there are benefits to having a conversation of one. My research revealed some surprising results.

We might not even realize we’re talking to ourselves since, for many, it’s just a habit. Not necessarily related to aging. While it may seem concerning to some, talking to oneself is normal and has benefits.

Talking to yourself may have cognitive benefits. It helps when dealing with multiple and complex tasks. Some people may talk aloud while solving a math challenge. Talking to yourself can help you stay focused. (That one made me feel better!)

Self-talk may also help with memory retention. It’s true that the more senses we use, the more likely we’ll retain information. So, why not ramble off your grocery list aloud before you head to the store?

Self-talk can help with managing stress and anxiety. Perhaps, instead of yelling at ourselves when we goof or engaging in self-deprecation, we could use the technique to bolster our confidence. “You’re a smart gal. You’ve got this!” Sometimes, by verbalizing our emotions or fears, we can talk ourselves into a more positive emotional state.

Something to think about out loud!