Positive Affirmations: The Power of Positive Thinking

Our mind is constantly thinking both positive and negative thoughts. Unfortunately, a lot of people tend to have a negative inner monologue. Have you noticed how thinking things such as "I'm so stupid", or "I can't do anything right" or "I'm so lazy and worthless" becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy? It damages your self esteem and results in a downward spiral, making you feel even worse.

Whether you think you can, or you think you can't - you're right. (Henry Ford)

A positive mental attitude can make a huge difference in your life, and this is where positive affirmations come in. Positive affirmations are specific and positive statements to repeat to yourself, which are intended to counteract and overcome negative thoughts. When used properly, you can harness the power of positive thinking which will make you happier and more confident.

"Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers you cannot be successful or happy."

Norman Vincent Peale

“I am the greatest, I said that even before I knew I was.”

Muhammad Ali

You can say positive affirmations as often as you'd like. Here are some suggestions as to when some good times for one is:

• In the morning
  After you wake up, why not start the day in a positive frame of mind with some positive affirmations? This is great to get you in a good mood ready to tackle the day ahead.
• When you need to make an important decision
  When you're doing something that could be stressful, such as making a big decision, saying a positive affirmation to do with confidence and your faith in your ability to make good decisions can clear your head and get rid of panic. Face your decisions with clarity!
• Before doing a challenging task
  Before going into an important interview or giving a big presentation, repeating a few positive affirmations can put you into the right mindset for success.
• When you need more motivation
  It's natural to feel demotivated or lazy sometimes. Saying a few positive affirmations can be the boost you need to continue with the tasks you have to do.

“You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.”

Buddha

"Winners make a habit of manufacturing their own positive expectations in advance of the event."

Brian Tracy

"Positive thinking will let you do everything better than negative thinking will."

Zig Ziglar

There's no right or wrong answer to this question. Your positive affirmation should be something that resonates with you. Look below for inspiration and ideas for positive affirmations, but ideally your affirmation should be crafted by you for you.

Think of things you like about yourself. There are lots of good things about you, even if you can't instantly think of them. Start thinking about the positive qualities you have. Here are some questions to get you thinking:

Do you care about other people?

Are you kind to animals?

Do you work hard at your job?

Do you treat your friends well?

Do you have a pet who depends on you for survival?

Do you enjoy good jokes?

Are you good at explaining things to others?

Do people come to you for advice?

Do you enjoy art or writing?

Are you smart?

All of these that you answered "yes" to demonstrate at least one good characteristic in yourself. And there are many more! Start brainstorming and you will soon come up with lots of positive characteristics you have that you may have never thought about before.

Other positive affirmations can come from appreciating what you have in life. It is easy to take the good things we have for granted and dwell on the negatives, but through positive affirmations we can gain a new understanding for exactly how lucky we are, which will drastically increase your happiness.

To write this sort of positive affirmation, think of questions such as the ones listed below.

Do you have a safe place to sleep tonight?

Do you know where your next meal is coming from?

Do you have a loving family?

Do you have a job?

Do you have good friends?

I am a kind person who cares about other people.

I let go of the things I cannot change, which makes me happy and carefree.

I make good choices.

I am at peace with who I am and who I used to be.

My life is full of happy surprises.

I take care of my body and it takes care of me.

I have control over my life.

I feel positive about where I am in life.

I am an honest and ethical person.

I am good at completing what I need to do on time.

I am lucky.

I am thankful for the opportunities I have in life.

I am a good leader.

I am strong enough to face the challenges in my life.

My coworkers and boss notice and appreciate the hard work I do.

My friends, family and coworkers respect my opinions.

I am healthy and happy.

I can express my point of view with clarity and calmness.

Put positive affirmations in places where you will notice them. For example:

• Inside your car
• On the bathroom mirror
• On the kitchen bench
• On the fridge
• On your bedside table
• In your calendar/diary
• Next to your computer
• On your work desk

Remember: you are important. <3