Speaking in Third Person: Psychologists Explain | [Video]

Learn the psychological benefits of speaking in third person backed by science and practical ways to apply this technique in daily life.

Have you ever noticed how referring to yourself in third person can make you feel more in control? Whether it’s LeBron James talking about LeBron or you quietly telling yourself, “You’ve got this,” speaking in the third person has more benefits than you might think.

Although it may seem odd, psychologists believe that this practice—often referred to as illeism—has scientific support and can enhance self-confidence, decision-making, and emotional regulation.

Let’s dive into why speaking in third person has gained attention in psychological circles, how it works, and why it’s a simple yet powerful tool you can use in daily life.

What Is Speaking in Third Person (Illeism)?

Illeismis the act of referring to oneself in the third person, using your name or a pronoun like “he” or “she” rather than saying “I” or “me.” Celebrities, …