Say it Again, But Kinder
8:00 minute exercise
Speaking to yourself with kindness is a powerful skill.
Use this activity to practice shifting your inner dialogue so it sounds more like the compassion you would offer someone you care about. This kind of language can help you stay steady during stress, disappointment, or doubt.
How to Use This Activity
Create a three-column table with these headers:
What I Said to Myself | What I Would Say to a Friend | Kinder Version for Me
Think of a moment that did not go the way you hoped. Write down your first reaction to yourself. Then imagine a close friend in the same situation. What would you say to them? Use that tone to create a kinder version for you.
Say It Again, But Kinder Example
| What I Said to Myself | What I Would Say to a Friend | Kinder Version for Me |
|---|---|---|
| I cannot believe I missed that deadline, I am so disorganized. | It happens. You have a lot going on, and missing one thing does not define you. | It is okay to miss things sometimes. I am learning and adjusting as I go. |
| I should have done better on that assignment. | You tried and you are figuring it out. One grade does not decide your future. | I can learn from this and keep improving. |
| I am falling behind again. | You are doing the best you can with what you have. You can take one step today. | I can start small and get back on track. |
| I am not good at time management. | You are building new habits. Change takes practice. | I am improving with each step I take. |
Save your table and come back to it when you notice a pattern in your self-talk.
Reflection Questions
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What do you notice about the difference in tone?
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How does it feel to say the kinder version out loud?
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Could this shift in language change how you move forward?
The way you speak to yourself matters. A kinder voice does not erase the challenge. It gives you the strength to face it with clarity and self-respect. Let this new voice guide your next steps. You deserve that gentleness.
