The WSJ ran an interesting article this week called, “Self-Talk, or a Heart-to-Heart With Your Closest Friend.”

Researchers have found that talking to yourself is more common than most realize, and actually does work to improve performance.

One key finding is that self-talk is more effective if you do it in the third person. In other words, instead of saying “I” you should use the word “you” or even your name.

For example, if I were struggling to finish my 10K race, instead of chanting “I can do it” it would be more effective to say “You can do it, you can do it!” Or in my case I’d be more likely to say something like, “Come on, Kruse, don’t be a wimp. Man up!”

Do you ever talk to yourself?

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Kevin Kruse is a NY Times bestselling author and serial entrepreneur. For insider tips and exclusive content, join his newsletter at kevinkruse.com.