Speaking to yourself in a gentler, more kind way is the simplest form of self love!
By now, you may have heard of “positive affirmations”. But you may be wondering what they are used for or how they can help. A positive affirmation is simply a phrase that usually begins with the words “I” or “I am”. For example, here is one from Louise Hay’s international bestselling book, You Can Heal Your Life:
“I love and approve of myself. It is safe for me to care for myself.”
There are hundreds you can search for on the internet and borrow. Search “Positive affirmations for…” (fill in the blank) The idea is to choose a couple that speak to you, perhaps even ones that you don’t believe just yet but want to work your way up to. After you have selected one or two you want to work with, look around your environment for areas you frequent (ie. office, kitchen, bathroom, or car) and think of creative ways to remind yourself of these positive affirmations you’ve chosen. Here are five simple, practical ways you can use positive affirmations to remind yourself how great you are truly are:
- Write one down on a post-it note and stick it to your refrigerator, computer or bathroom mirror. Somewhere you will see it every day.
- Take a screenshot of an affirmation you like (from Google Images) and set it as your phone’s home or lock screen so any time you look at your phone, you will be reminded.
- Use dry erase markers and write one on your bathroom mirror. Easily swap out as needed. This works great for reminders too!
- Write an affirmation over and over again on a piece of paper or in a journal until the page is full. Repeat it to yourself silently as you write every word.
- Repeat an affirmation out loud 5 times, while driving or after brushing your teeth!
By incorporating these techniques into your daily practice, you may start to notice subtle shifts in the way you silently speak to yourself, with more kindness and compassion. At first, it may feel strange, but with time, it gets easier. Once you feel like you believe the affirmation, choose one you want to work on next and repeat!
