POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS - AND WHY THEY ARE POWERFUL

So let’s start with what exactly is a positive affirmation? Affirmations are positive reminders or statements that can be used to encourage and motivate you and challenge negative or unhelpful thoughts. More importantly you may choose to use your affirmations to combat the negative self-talk.

A better approach, is something called “self-affirmation.” According to Lisa Legault, assistant professor of psychology at Clarkson University, “Self-affirmation is the process of reminding yourself of the values and interests ‘that constitute your true or core self’ - It’s taking stock of who you are and what you care about.”  

Exercise:

Here are some examples of affirmations that you can use on a daily basis. Start by picking two or three that resonate with you or simply write your own.

• I create a safe and secure space for myself wherever I am.

• I give myself permission to do what is right for me.

• I am strong and I believe in myself.

• I am confident in my ability to (fill the blanks)

• I am superior to negative thoughts and low actions.

• Happiness is a choice. I base my happiness on my own accomplishments and the blessings I have been given.

• It is okay to make adjustments along the way.

• I am at peace with all that has happened, is happening and will happen.

• I use my time and talent to help others {fill in the blanks}

• What I love about myself is the ability to {fill in the blanks}

• I feel proud of myself when I {fill in the blank}.

• I give myself space to grow and learn.

• I allow myself to be who I am without judgment.

• I listen to my intuition and trust my inner guide.

• I accept my emotions and let them serve their purpose.

• I give myself the care and attention that I deserve.

• I am good at helping others to {fill in the blank}.

• I put my energy into things that matter to me.

• I trust myself to make the right decision.

• I am becoming closer to my true self every day.

• I am grateful to have people in my life who {fill in the blank}

How do you use affirmations?

There are many ways. You may decide you want to read these out loud in front of a mirror or perhaps repeat them in your head like a mantra or write them down in a journal.

Whatever you decide you need to try and do this in the morning or at bedtime as part of your daily routine.

NOTE: It may seem self-indulgent at first and there will be many that are skeptical, but you will come to realise just how much of a positive impact they can have on your mindset.

Tip: Use post-it notes on your mirror so you can see them whilst you are getting ready – or throughout the day.