Sh*t I Say to Myself by Katie Krimer Summary

Sht I Say to Myself* is a self-help guide by therapist Katie Krimer that tackles negative self-talk using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness. It provides 40 actionable strategies to challenge toxic thoughts, reframe perfectionism, and break cycles of anxiety. The book blends humor with clinical expertise, focusing on common phrases like “I’m not good enough” and offering tools to replace them with empowering mantras.

This book suits millennials and Gen Z readers struggling with self-doubt, overthinking, or anxiety. It’s ideal for those seeking practical, no-nonsense advice on silencing their inner critic. Therapists may also recommend it to clients as a supplemental resource for managing cognitive distortions.

Yes, for its concise, relatable approach to mental health. Krimer combines clinical methods with witty anecdotes, making complex psychology accessible. Readers praise its actionable exercises, though some Gen X users note the slang-heavy tone leans millennial.

Krimer targets:

• All-or-nothing thinking (“I’m a total failure”)
• Catastrophizing (“This will ruin everything”)
• Should statements (“I should be further ahead”)
  She provides scripts to reframe these patterns using mindfulness and self-compassion.

The guide teaches readers to observe thoughts nonjudgmentally, label them as passing mental events, and redirect focus to the present. Techniques include breathwork, body scans, and grounding exercises to disrupt rumination cycles.

Notable lines include:

• “Your thoughts are electrical signals, not facts.”
• “Ghost your toxic mind like a bad Tinder date.”
  These emphasize detaching from harmful narratives and taking actionable steps toward self-acceptance.

Yes, she dedicates a chapter to dismantling perfectionism, framing it as a fear-based trap. Strategies include embracing “good enough” outcomes, setting realistic standards, and celebrating minor progress.

Krimer’s approach stands out for its Gen Y/Millennial voice, blending clinical rigor with humor (e.g., comparing negative thoughts to “a drunk text from your ex”). It avoids vague affirmations in favor of step-by-step cognitive rewiring.

Some older readers find the slang excessive (e.g., “dope,” “ghosting”), and critics note it focuses more on awareness than deep trauma work. However, most praise its accessibility for those new to CBT.

Yes, the CBT-based tools target symptoms like rumination and low self-worth. Krimer includes crisis interventions for panic attacks and actionable steps to build emotional resilience over time.

As a licensed clinical social worker, she integrates evidence-based frameworks like ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy). Case studies from her practice illustrate real-world applications.

Yes, each chapter includes:

• Thought-challenging prompts
• Mantra-building activities
• Progress trackers
  These help readers apply concepts to personal struggles like career stress or body image issues.

Pair with:

• The Self-Compassion Workbook for Teens (Krimer’s other work)
• Atomic Habits for behavior change
• The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* for similar tone