Like many people, I occasionally talk to myself—sometimes without even realizing it, and even out loud. It helps me focus on tasks and sparks brilliant ideas, leading to better results.
For instance, while writing this article, I've been mumbling reminders like, "Add that idea here, don't forget this point." Do you talk to yourself too?
Recent psychological research reveals that talking to yourself isn't a sign of madness—it's a hallmark of intelligence.
Psychologist Gary Lupyan from the University of Wisconsin conducted an experiment with 20 volunteers. Participants were shown objects and tasked with remembering them. Half repeated the object's name aloud (e.g., "banana"), while the other half stayed silent.
Results? Those who verbalized found objects 50-100 milliseconds faster. Lupyan, who often mutters item names while shopping, collaborated with psychologist Daniel Swigert to confirm: self-talk makes you smarter. Here's how:
Self-talk activates your sensory mechanisms, making it easier to visualize words and objects, improving recall and action.
Verbalizing keeps you locked on the task, instantly defining your target. For familiar items like a yellow banana, saying it aloud cues your brain with a clear image to guide your search. (It works best when you know the item's appearance.)
We all have rational and irrational thoughts. Instead of bottling up anger—say, fantasizing about confronting someone—talk it out alone. Verbalize pros and cons to release tension and gain perspective.
Psychologist Linda Sapadin explains: "It helps clarify thoughts, prioritize what's important, and make better decisions." Self-talk is a safe outlet for ideas too awkward to share.
