The Words Your Child Says to Themselves Matter | V162

What is your child saying to themselves when they make a mistake?

“I’m terrible at this.”

“I’ll never get it.”

“Maybe I’m just not talented enough.”

Those statements may sound harmless in the moment—but repeated negative self-talk can begin shaping what a child believes about themselves.

In Episode 162 of High Performance Parenting, Greg Francis continues his Champion Mindset conversation with his daughter Crissy as they explore the connection between self-talk, mental toughness, preparation, discipline, and performance.

Crissy openly shares that she can be her own worst critic and has had to intentionally change the way she speaks to herself on the tennis court and in everyday life.

In this episode, you'll discover:

Why champions aren't simply born with stronger mindsHow mental toughness can be intentionally developedWhy negative self-talk affects performanceHow children unintentionally reinforce limiting beliefsWhat athletes can say after mistakes instead of attacking themselvesWhy discipline now prevents regret laterHow physical preparation and mental preparation work togetherWhy children need to focus on what they can controlHow to help kids stop comparing their circumstances to othersWhy becoming champion-minded requires changing daily habits

Crissy explains that instead of reacting to a mistake with frustration, she's learning to respond with thoughts such as “It wasn't my best, but it was closer.” That seemingly small shift helps her remain in a productive mental state rather than spiraling into criticism.

Greg also shares an important warning:

Your subconscious starts believing what you repeatedly tell it.