When we think negatively, our confidence diminishes and our outlook darkens. Sometimes we just need to reset our thinking a little bit and bring our confidence back. A simple way to do that is by using affirmations to go from a negative mindset and into a positive mindset.
The problem with negative thoughts is that they can become self-fulfilling prophecies. We talk ourselves into thinking that we're not good enough and consequently, these ideas start to drag us and everything in our lives down.
However, if we intentionally do the opposite and infuse our thoughts with optimism, the effect could be just as strong - but far more helpful.
What Are Affirmations?
Affirmations are positive statements that allow you to challenge and overcome self-sabotaging and negative ideas. If you repeat them often, the thought will become second-nature and you will naturally start to make positive changes.
You may think affirmations to be unrealistic and maybe even wishful thinking. But try looking at it this way: people do repetitive exercises to enhance their physical health. Affirmations are just like that, but exercises for our mind. The affirmation repetitions can reprogram our thinking patterns so that over time, we start to innately think differently.
Using Affirmations
You can use affirmations in any situation where you'd love to see a positive change. Like, boost your confidence before an important meeting, improve your self-esteem, or overcome a bad habit. Affirmations can also be helpful when setting personal goals.
The power of affirmations comes from you reciting them as many times a day as you can. You also should repeat your affirmations as soon as you engage in the negative thought or behavior that you would like to overcome. Say it with feeling. Affirmations can be more effective when they carry emotional weight. You need this change to happen, so choose to repeat a phrase that is meaningful to you.
Choosing An Affirmation
Write down the behaviors or thoughts that you would like to change. Be sure they are your truth and what matter to you personally. This will ensure that you will feel genuinely encouraged to reach them. Also make sure that your affirmation is based on a realistic evaluation of the facts.
Write your affirmation in the present tense. Write and speak your affirmation as if it's already occurring. This helps you to think that the statement is true at this time. For example,"I'm well-prepared and well-rehearsed; I will give an excellent presentation," would be a great affirmation to utilize if you're feeling nervous speaking before a bunch of people. Turn negatives into positives and choose an affirmation that's the opposite of the negative thought or belief.
Affirmations are a powerful and positive tool that anyone can use. It will seem silly at first but after some time it will become your natural way of thinking. Keeping positive is so important to your overall health and well-being.
For more insights into positive ways of thinking and how to make this a common practice in your life, check out these other blog posts on the same topic 5 Benefits of Positive Mindset and How to Get Out of a Negative Mindset.