10 Affirmations to Increase Positive Living

10 Affirmations to Increase Positive Living

The way we talk to ourselves is influential over our mood and self-esteem. Unhelpful, negative self-talk can be reprogrammed into positive thinking by repeating affirmations. Affirmations are positive declarations of encouragement or support, and by using them in this way, we can actually rewire our brains by forming new positive neural pathways. Affirmations have been scientifically researched, and the mind and its thoughts have proven to have a great effect on many aspects of our lives. Studies have shown that self-affirmation can also improve problem solving, boost grade-point averages in students, and enhance performance while also increasing receptiveness to mistakes.

Use affirmations in the present tense, and be honest to yourself and your situation. Perhaps an “I love myself,” may be modified into an “I am learning to love myself.” Having a physical copy of an affirmation or list of affirmations written out and taped to the bathroom mirror or hanging on the closet door can be a useful way to remember to tell yourself something kind and encouraging while getting ready each morning. Stating the affirmation out loud and looking yourself in the eye while doing so can add a powerful effect as well.

Here are 10 affirmations to increase positivity.

1. I am open to discovering new meaning in my life.
2. I choose to bring peace by acting mindfully toward others.
3. I respect and believe in myself apart from others’ opinions of me.
4. I enjoy the adventure of life, and challenges that come along are opportunities for growth.
5. I take pleasure in my friends and family, even if we sometimes disagree.
6. I forgive myself for the mistakes I have made and am willing to learn from them.
7. I accept the natural and inevitable ups and downs of life.
8. I release judgement toward others and myself.
9. I have a variety of talents which I will utilize today.
10. I am open to receiving support from others.

You can use these affirmations alone, if one particularly resonates with you, or you can use a combination of them. You can also customize them to suit your own life circumstance and needs or even make your own up by stating the opposite of a personal negative belief you hold.

Negativity is a challenging habit to break, but the mind is a powerful thing. It will require repeated practice to get more comfortable with affirmations and then eventually to see a difference, though it is certainly a rewarding way to start the day. Changing your thinking will change your life.

Call for now for a free consult to see how and see how you can apply these principals and begin to build positivity in your life.

This blog was written by:

Nicole Ripley, BA Psyc, M.Couns

Registered Clinical Counsellor (#10535)

 Okanagan Clinical Counselling Services