Positive affirmations are statements or phrases that are used to challenge negative or unhelpful thoughts and encourage a positive mindset. They are typically short, encouraging, and positively loaded phrases that can be repeated to oneself. Positive affirmations can be said aloud, written down, or simply repeated in ones head. They are meant to help build confidence and self-esteem, and to minimize negativity. Positive affirmations work best when they are about a specific issue or concern that one is dealing with.
Positive affirmations can be used to manifest goals, dreams, or to change ones trajectory in life. They can help change thought patterns and support efforts to change behavior, build confidence, and achieve personal and professional goals. Positive affirmations can also help combat stress and increase neural pathways in the brain.
It is important to note that positive affirmations are not a substitute for professional help, such as therapy, when dealing with anxiety or depression. They are meant to encourage a positive outlook and mindset, but it is also important to acknowledge and process difficult emotions and situations.
To write positive affirmations, one should pick out a quality, trait, or choice they have made and begin highlighting the positive aspects of that. Affirmations should be specific, encouraging, and positively worded. It is also important to find a method of positive affirmation that works best for oneself, whether that be saying them aloud, writing them down, or repeating them in ones head.