Positive Affirmations
The phrase “positive affirmations” seems to pop up everywhere now. We scroll on social media and they are there. We hear about them on TV shows and movies, and now our kids’ teachers are using them in the classroom. Great exposure, but what the heck are they, and why are they important?
Positive affirmations are statements or brief phrases that help challenge unhealthy beliefs and thinking patterns. They are a purposeful type of self-talk that offers encouragement and can help strengthen (or build) neural pathways, increasing the likelihood of more positive thought patterns. Our thoughts can influence our mood and actions, so why not try to make them more positive or at least more neutral? Positive affirmations can be repeated internally, externally, or even written down somewhere to look at frequently. Some affirmations are unique to us and others are commonly found throughout society and used by many! Positive affirmations usually work best when they are specific to us and our circumstances and when we find a set routine to use them, such as during our morning routine before work or school.
Like many things, positive affirmations take time to work and might not work for everyone. Numerous research studies show the benefits of positive affirmations including increased happiness and gratitude, enhanced physical ability (hello, athletes!), and a reduction in stress and anxiety. When deciding to start utilizing positive affirmations, keep them realistic, find ones that make sense to you, and figure out a routine to use them.
Be patient with yourself as you start to incorporate them into your routine. They are not a magic fix and your thinking patterns will not change overnight. It takes time to rewire your brain (thanks, neuroplasticity!). Don’t allow your positive affirmations to turn into toxic positivity and understand that they don’t work for everyone. Certain mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression might make it difficult to utilize positive affirmations and might require more specific mental health treatment and interventions.
Here are my top 10 favorite positive affirmations.
I give myself permission to rest.
I surround myself with others who bring me happiness.
I will have an open mind going into a new season.
I am strong.
My past doesn’t define me.
I am enough.
My time is valuable and I pick how to spend it.
I can respect what others say and how they feel while still holding my boundaries.
I am capable of being a great [insert role- student, worker, mother, father, sister, etc].
Today I will strive to do my best.