Do you ever catch yourself overthinking, replaying a conversation, or catastrophising a future event? You're not alone. According to psychologist and neuroscientist Ethan Kross, the voice in our head can be both our greatest asset and our harshest critic.
In his brilliant TED Talk, Kross explains how our inner dialogue—what he calls “the inner voice”—helps us plan, reflect and stay motivated. But it can also spiral into what he calls chatter—a negative loop of self-talk that fuels anxiety, stress, and self-doubt.
So, how do we make our inner voice work for us, not against us?
Kross shares three practical, science-backed strategies:
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Use distanced self-talk – Speak to yourself like you would a friend (using your name or “you”) to gain clarity and reduce emotional overwhelm. The empty chair technique (Tutorial Here), used in Gestalt therapy can be a really useful way to put this into practice when you first start.
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Choose your listeners wisely – Venting isn’t always helpful. Seek out people who can help you shift perspective.
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Seek out awe – Spend time in nature, contemplate vast ideas, or admire something beautiful to help shrink your mental noise.
Questions to consider:
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When does your inner voice help you thrive?
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When does it hold you back?
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What would it sound like if your inner critic became your inner coach?
Whether you're exploring emotional wellbeing, looking to reduce anxiety, or just curious about mindset techniques that work, this short talk offers interesting and (for me) relatable insights.
Ready to tune into your thoughts with fresh ears?
Watch the full TED Talk here: Ethan Kross – How to Harness Your Inner Voice
Comment below to let me know what you think!
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