The Self-Talk Workout

June 20, 2022
In this ho-hum program, clinical psychologist Turow (Mindfulness Skills for Trauma and PTSD) offers guidance on curbing self-criticism. Noting that many people think their negative self-talk is a “fixed characteristic,” Turow draws on psychological research and patients’ stories to address how readers can change their attitudes toward themselves by developing a more positive self-perception. Her most novel suggestion is to “act before you think” because “service itself—the action rather than the intention—cultivates positive internal states.” She describes the underlying psychological concept of behavioral activation (“doing active stuff even when you don’t feel like it”) and urges readers to try an activity they’ve been contemplating, but don’t feel ready for. The rest of the advice feels largely conventional by comparison: practice deliberate breathing, see the upside of one’s situation, and nurture positivity through meditation. Readers will nonetheless appreciate the exercises, which encourage thinking positively by writing down 10 things that went well during one’s day and accepting that “suffering is part of being human” by acknowledging one’s negative feelings and then performing a self-care activity such as going for a walk. Turow doesn’t bring much new to the table, but the straightforward advice will satisfy those less experienced with the topic.

October 1, 2022

Most humans struggle with a particularly harsh critic: themselves. Turow (psychology, Seattle Univ.; Mindfulness Skills for Trauma), recognizes that self-criticism remains extremely strong in society. As a clinical psychologist and professor, Goldsmith Turow has often witnessed that self-criticism by students and patients can worsen depression and stress. She addresses this issue by providing a variety of exercises and other techniques. The series of "workouts" promote healthy self-talk so that readers can lower stress and improve mental health. Each chapter includes a brief background on a topic/technique, a core exercise, anecdotes from anonymous patients who tried these practices, and reflection questions. Practices include breathing exercises, creating gratitude lists, mindfulness/meditation strategies, such as lovingkindness meditation and self-compassion breaks. Most exercises only take five to 10 minutes a day but require repetition. Readers can choose one exercise or combine them. Goldsmith Turow underscores the importance of noticing feelings without judgment, especially when one loses focus and also recognizes that some issues may require more therapy. VERDICT A final chapter that included a brief synopsis of all the exercises found in this book would have been helpful. Recommended for anyone needing techniques to pacify their inner critic.--Erica Swenson Danowitz

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