Affirmations 101: How to Talk to Yourself

I am a big fan of affirmations. Positive self talk builds confidence and courage. We all use affirmations throughout the day. The problem is, when we’re not intentional, those affirmations are often negative ones. “I’m not good enough.” “I’ll never figure this out.” “No one is interested in what I’m selling.” That’s because we are wired to protect ourselves against worst-case scenarios and that habit is hard to break.

The good news is that when you learn to craft and use positive affirmations, it’s like your coach or best friend in your head cheering you on to make that call, take that risk and reach that goal. Your subconscious mind will respond to the statements you tell it.

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Watch this brief video about how I became a better speaker with four little words.

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Here are three simple steps to craft and use empowering affirmations:

  1. Write. Keep your statements positive, in the present and brief. For example, if you say “There is no lack in my life,” you confuse your subconscious. It’s more effective to say, “Everything I need comes to me.” If you say, “Everything I need is coming to me,” that’s not in the present. And finally, when you keep it brief, you’re more likely to remember and say it.
  2. Post. Once you craft your affirmation, print it out and post it where you’ll see it every day. Like your bathroom mirror, the dashboard of your car or by your computer screen. Make it the screenshot on your phone. Consider a ritual of writing it fresh every day.
  3. Proclaim. Say it to yourself, out loud and, when appropriate, to others. Consider energizing it by singing or chanting it. You can use affirmations at work to motivate your team by adding it to your meeting agendas or proposals.

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I recently asked my friends and followers how they talk to themselves. Here are some of their responses:

  • I love you just the way you are.
  • I’m right where I’m supposed to be.
  • All is well.
  • Life is good.
  • I am open to receive.
  • Today, no matter where I go or what I do, I look for what I want to see.
  • You’re enough.
  • I am worthy.
  • Everything always works out for me.

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What’s your go-to affirmation? Share it here!

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