The way you speak to yourself either engenders creative action and positive growth, or stifles it. Your internal monologue can give you courage or cripple you with insecurity. Take an objective listen to your inner voice. Notice the way you talk to yourself. How do you encourage yourself? Can you detect tenderness, love, softness? Or is the tone more critical, unforgiving? Are you a nag? Start to consciously speak to yourself with gentleness and love. Spend time with people who are gentle with you.  Don’t set goals that don’t allow time for rest and rejuvenation in your life. In this way, you not only set yourself up for success, but the ride will be a lot more enjoyable too. Your future self thanks you.