What if modifying your self-talk could actually change your life? We all could use some encouraging words from time to time, especially for concerns that weigh heavy on our minds. There’s no doubt that tough times can be hard to manage, and negativity can creep into our thoughts. Since I began my wellness journey in 2022, I have been drawn to positive affirmations almost daily.
Claude Steele proposed the self-affirmation theory in the 1980’s. This article explains the science behind the theory and that the overall goal of the self-system is to protect an image of its self-integrity. It’s also referred to as “self-defense,” which enables people to deal with threatening events.
Self-worth includes a person’s core beliefs, personal values and qualities, social relationships, and childhood experiences. Psychologists agree that affirmations aren’t just “wishful thinking” or only work for “positive people.” Check out this article from Psychology Today. It states that your thoughts are powerful and can help determine the outcome of your life.
Thoughts are the foundation of one’s actions. Affirmations have been a big part of my healthy habit routine, and I look forward to reciting them each day. Here is a list of what positive affirmations have to offer:
Improved self-esteem
Enhanced mood
Stress reduction
Better resilience
Increased motivation
Health benefits
Enhanced performance
Improved relationships
Greater self-awareness
Positive outlook on life
Increased focus
Emotional balance
Mindfulness
Empowerment
Manifestation of goals
You can use the affirmations below to aid in your wellness journey, but I would encourage you to create your own. This will make them more personal and relative to what’s going on in your life. They must be realistic, grounded, and meaningful. They can be created for various areas of your life including health, self-esteem, mental health, career, and relationships. I’ve placed an asterisk (*) next to my favorites that have helped me!
I am enough
I will have faith over fear
I can and I will *
I will focus on the positive
I look and feel younger than my age *
I am intelligent
I can do anything I put my mind to
My consistency will equal results*
I will only attract people that are good for me *
I am brave *
I am grateful for every new day
I am beautiful
I embrace opportunities to grow
I am capable of achieving my goals
I will live every day to the fullest
I will be better than yesterday *
I deserve good things that come my way
I have the skills to succeed
These mantras can be confidence-boosters and offer stress-relief. Individuals may be more focused on their goals, which will result in increased productivity. An improvement in self-worth is likely, since positive repetition rewires negative thinking. Optimism is powerful! Here are a few ideas as to how to use affirmations in daily life:
Repetitions – morning routines, journaling
Visualization – pairing affirmations with mental imagery
Meditation – mindfulness practice
Affirmation cards, phone reminders, recorded affirmations
By incorporating affirmations into daily routines, individuals can achieve personal growth and create a more fulfilling life. This positivity can significantly impact a person’s mindset and overall well-being. Repeating uplifting statements can improve thought patterns and cultivate a more optimistic outlook on life. These statements can also encourage you to create a better picture of yourself.
How we think and talk about ourselves plays a role in our level of self-esteem. Reframing negative self-talk into realistic, compassionate alternatives are beneficial. Remember that you become what you believe, and it all begins with what you tell yourself. There’s an increased value when you speak to yourself with kindness and intention.
I encourage you to try reciting affirmations consistently for 30 days and journal how they make you feel. Focus on your emotions, energy levels, confidence, and thoughts. I look forward to hearing your comments.
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Photo by: Tima Miroshnichenko
