Vol. 5, Issue 2, Part A (2023)

Self-talk is an inherent part of our daily lives, a constant companion during our waking hours. Increasingly, people are recognizing the immense potency of positive self-talk in bolstering self-confidence and quelling the adverse tides of negative emotions. Those who can master the art of positive self-talk are often attributed with greater confidence, heightened motivation, and enhanced productivity.
In the realm of sports, self-talk assumes a pivotal role. It functions as a formidable pedagogical tool and a self-regulatory mechanism that athletes can wield to facilitate the acquisition of novel motor skills and elevate their performance levels. Self-talk essentially encapsulates the internal dialogue within an individual's mind, influenced by the depths of their subconscious. It serves as a portal into their thoughts, beliefs, questions, and ideas. Positive self-talk, in particular, represents the capacity to triumph over the onslaught of negative ruminations. Those adept at cultivating positive self-talk are less susceptible to the debilitating clutches of pessimistic thoughts. In effect, positive self-talk bestows upon performers a state of heightened relaxation and unwavering focus.
Conversely, succumbing to negative thoughts serves to escalate anxiety levels. In stark contrast, the practice of positive self-talk kindles feelings of elation and enthusiasm, which, in turn, pave the path to successful performance. This study is unswervingly dedicated to unravelling the role of self-talk in the context of sports and its profound impact on performance enhancement.