In today’s episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, we sit down with Traci Poe, a communication expert with a powerful message—not about how we speak to others, but how we speak to ourselves.

Traci explains that one of the most damaging and overlooked forms of communication is our inner dialogue. Far too often, we mistreat ourselves with negative self-talk, using harsh labels or being overly critical. This internal narrative can quietly erode our confidence, especially during challenging life stages like caregiving or retirement.

To help shift this dynamic, Traci offers a simple yet transformative three-step process:

1. Recognize the Pattern – Notice when you’re being unkind or critical to yourself. Awareness is the first step toward change.
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3. Relabel the Negative Names – Replace those harmful labels (“lazy,” “bad,” “not good enough”) with more accurate and compassionate terms.
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5. Reframe the Story – Learn to see challenges through a new lens. Instead of “I failed,” try “I’m learning something new.”
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Traci also shares practical tips to help rebuild self-esteem and foster a healthier relationship with yourself:

• Understand that self-care is not selfish—it’s essential.
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• Surround yourself with people who lift you up.
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• Be your own ally; treat yourself like you would a dear friend.
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• Celebrate your wins, especially the small ones—they matter.
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• Laugh more—it lightens the soul.
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• Increase your sense of gratitude.
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• And most importantly, give yourself grace and mercy. We're all human. We make mistakes, and that's part of the journey.
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This conversation is a gentle reminder that the words we speak to ourselves matter. By shifting our inner voice, we can better care for others—starting with ourselves.

Tune in and discover how a little kindness on the inside can change everything on the outside.