When you are affirming something, you are declaring it to be true. A simple positive affirmation can work as a proactive defense against any negative and hurtful thoughts you might have about yourself. Choose one of the following affirmations below from author and speaker Louise Hay's " Power Thought Cards " ($16); I keep these on my desk at work and pull one out whenever I'm having a tough day or find myself in need of a little inspiration.
- I am willing to let go. "I release others to experience whatever is meaningful to them, and I am free to create that which is meaningful to me."
- I listen with love to my body's messages. "My body is always working towards optimum health. My body wants to be whole and healthy. I cooperate and become healthy, whole, and complete."
- I release all criticism. "I only give out that which I wish to receive in return. My love and acceptance of others is mirrored to me in every moment."
- I accept my uniqueness. "There is no competition and no comparison, for we are all different and meant to be that way. I am special and wonderful. I love myself."
- I love and approve of myself. "I appreciate all that I do. I am good enough just as I am. I speak up for myself. I ask for what I want. I claim my power."
Now comes the fun part: head over to the mirror, look directly into your own eyes, and say your affirmation out loud. If this sounds a little out of the ordinary, don't be alarmed; it will probably feel a little silly the first time you do it, but keep doing it throughout the entire day. Every time you pass your reflection in the mirror to check yourself out or pick yourself apart, repeat your affirmation to yourself out loud again. The more you do it, the more you will mean your words, and the more you will believe them. I've found that repeating positive affirmations helps me let go of the petty stuff and negativity, and to focus on all the good in me and in my life.
One day of affirmations can be beneficial, but if you make this a consistent practice in your life, you'll start to criticize yourself less and less, and finally see yourself in a much more accepting and loving way. I cannot recommend it enough.
It's time to be kind to yourself.
