autosuggestion

Autosuggestion is a self-administered method of influencing thoughts, feelings, and behavior through repeated, affirmative statements or suggestions. Unlike external hypnosis, autosuggestion relies on the individual’s own repetitions and mental focus. The practice gained prominence in the early 20th century with Émile Coué, a French pharmacist who developed the Coué method of positive self-suggestion. His approach centered on simple, optimistic phrases and relaxed breathing, best summarized by the motto “Every day, in every way, I am getting better and better.”

Proposed mechanisms include cognitive and motivational pathways: repeating positive statements may alter self-perception, expectations, and goal-directed behavior; it can strengthen self-efficacy and reduce anxiety through suggestion and conditioning. Some researchers emphasize placebo-like effects or priming that aligns automatic thoughts with desired outcomes.

Techniques commonly involve selecting concise, realistic affirmations tied to a specific goal, reciting them regularly—often during calm, seated practice—and pairing statements with imagery or breathing routines. Journaling and routine scheduling are sometimes used to reinforce the process.

Applications appear in personal development, sports and performance coaching, stress management, and habit formation. The empirical evidence for autosuggestion is mixed; some studies report modest benefits, while others find limited or inconsistent effects. Critics caution against oversimplifying behavior change or neglecting underlying issues that may require professional intervention.

See also: self-talk, positive affirmations, self-efficacy, cognitive behavioral therapy, placebo.