The Power of Positive Affirmations

Positive affirmations are assertions that we use to transform and replace negative thoughts. The goal is to come out of a vicious circle and enter a virtuous one by interrupting the self-sabotage process commonly associated with negative thoughts.

By repeating positive affirmations regularly, not only will we change our way of thinking, but we will also instill these affirmations in ourselves. In short, the more we repeat them, the more likely we are to believe in them.

Our mind acts like a muscle, and through exercise and repetition, we can shape it the way we want. Positive mental rehearsals can redefine our thinking patterns so that we can start to think and act differently over time. The brain cannot distinguish between what is real and what is not. If you touch your hair or think you’re touching your hair, you’re going to trigger the same response to your brain. Using positive affirmations (or negative thoughts), you will convey the same information to your unconscious mind, which will assume that they are real. At this point, the mind will do everything to help prove what you’re thinking is right. Consequently, this creates this self-fulfilling notion in our thoughts (be it positive or negative).

What Are the Effects of Positive Affirmations?

1) Helps You Succeed

This simple exercise alone can help increase your chances of success. For instance, people who reflect upon their main strengths (positive thoughts) before an exam or any other essential meetings tend to be more relaxed and have a higher level of self-confidence.

2) Reduces Stress Level

Using positive affirmations helps to alleviate the effects of stress. For instance, many athletes are good at visualizing things and thrive through positive thoughts. Skiers, for example, “picture” a descent in a myriad of ways to help find the best route before making it. Even better, positive affirmations have made it possible for people suffering from chronic stress to solve complex issues with the same ease as individuals with low levels of stress.

3) Helps Boost Your Self-Esteem

Positive affirmations also help support people with low self-esteem. There are many causes of depression and low self-esteem, feelings of unworthiness and other self-degrading thoughts play a massive part in depressive behaviors. With positive affirmations, you can alter the way you think and make it work for you instead of working against you.

There are many reasons you can use positive affirmations and experience positive changes in your life. This may include:

• To improve your self-image
• To increase your confidence in the presence of others
• Manage negative emotions such as anger, impatience, frustration
• Realize your dreams
• Achieve your goals
• Believe in your capabilities

Positive affirmations will differ based on the specific and personal changes you want to perceive in your life. However, here are some examples that may help you:

1. I feel confident
2. I have unique skills and qualities
3. I can stay calm and don’t get carried away in difficult times
4. I love making new friends
5. I accept and love myself as I am
6. Those around me respect me and love me
7. I can accomplish anything I set my mind to

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To start using affirmations, assess the negative thoughts or behaviors you would like to modify in your life. Afterward, find positive, credible, and achievable affirmations that are the opposite of these thoughts. Repeat them several times a day, particularly when you find yourself having negative or self-destructive thoughts or engaging in pessimistic behaviors. Keep in mind that affirmations are most effective when used in conjunction with visualization!