How To Actually Use Affirmations
Have you ever started your day by saying something positive to or about yourself? Can you remember how it set the tone for the rest of your day?
Or maybe you haven’t yet. Maybe you’ve been hearing a lot about these so-called affirmations. Maybe you're curious to know what the heck they are and how they might help you. Is an affirmation the same thing as a mantra? Is it an inspirational quote?
An affirmation is a short, memorable string of words. While it can be anything you want it to be, usually it is a statement that begins with “I am”, “I can”, or “I will”. Affirmations help to wire your brain by telling it that you already have what it is you wish to attract.
The incredible thing about your subconscious mind is that it has been programmed since infancy to think and act based on your experiences and the stories you create about yourself. Your subconscious is constantly tuning in to hear what you have to say so it can respond accordingly. This means affirmations are incredibly powerful tools in shifting your mindset. Affirmations are brief, positive reminders that you repeat throughout the day to attract more of what you want in your life - like self-love, positivity, calmness, or optimism.
Talking to yourself might feel silly at first, especially when you do it in the mirror. But in time, Kelly I promise it will feel more comfortable. It may even feel inauthentic to you - as if you are merely saying something for the sake of saying it. But the more you say it, the more you will believe it, which is the whole idea. The feeling of being fake will start to go away with time.
While it is helpful to repeat your phrase a few times while looking at yourself in the mirror in the morning and at night, it is not a requirement. You also do not have to repeat your affirmation out loud at all. Many people will say their affirmation quietly to themselves or in their heads throughout their day. Some people will choose to journal it over and over in the morning, afternoon, and night.
There is no wrong way to practice affirmations. The most important thing you can ever do with your affirmation is connect with it as much as possible and try to feel it when you say it.
If what you seek is more self-love, then you won’t want to say something like, “I am doing great at work”. Similarly, if you're trying to feel more confident at work, then you won’t want to choose the affirmation, “I can love my body”.
Neither of these affirmations are wrong, but it is possible for your choice in affirmations to misalign with your intention and goals. So when you choose or create your affirmation, don’t be afraid to pick one that resonates with you. Which affirmation you select, as well as when and how you practice it, may look completely different from someone else.
All that really matters is that your affirmation is authentic to you.
Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as legal, financial, or medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional advice of your own attorney, accountant, physician, or financial advisor. Always check with your own physician, attorney, financial advisor, accountant, or other business or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.
