How do I help transform negative self-talk into positive self-talk in others?

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1. Is there are reason you’re hanging out with people who are down on themselves? Anyway here are some options:

   * Make it a ‘fun’ discussion of your worst features. So you could say, “Oh, I know what you mean, I’ve always hated my ELBOWS!” and you start sticking your elbow up and staring at it.
   * Take what they say seriously and follow up on it. “Do you think that makes life a lot HARDER for you?”
   * Give them an improvement tip: “You could always change your hairstyle or start dressing better.”
   * You could change focus: “But you’re beautiful on the INSIDE, that’s what counts!”
   * State a fact of life: “We’re all gonna look worse when we’re older, so we might as well enjoy what we have now.”
   * Ask why this topic is relevant: “Did someone TELL you that?”
   * Ask how they feel about it: “Are you feeling sad about it?”
   * Ask if they have a plan: “Are you going to try to improve?”
   * Ask if they have any good points: “So what’s your STRONG suit?”

   It depends on how often this comes up, but people who run themselves down a lot tend to make bad company.