We often hear the phrase “just think positively” as a strategy to replace negative thoughts with positive ones; the reality is, it’s not that easy. Our negative thought patterns are often ingrained as a rumination loop in our brain, getting stuck on what feels like an endless cycle; our actions often follow, reinforcing core beliefs. Positive affirmations can help.
The definition of affirmation is: the action or process of affirming something or being affirmed. It stands to reason, that if we can repeat a message to ourselves, aligning with our goals, we can begin to lean into the neuroplasticity of our brain; an ongoing remodeling of its function and framework that lasts a lifetime. In other words, it is never to late to change a thought pattern.
Positive affirmations need to be daily, goal oriented and personalized so as to best suit your own needs. My biggest tip on how to create positive affirmations for yourself is to use google :). Identify your negative thought pattern, flip it so as to recognize the opposite, and then google “positive affirmations for ___________”
An example: If our negative thought is “I always feel sad,” we want to flip it to “I want to feel happy.” When I googled “positive affirmations for happiness,” I was able to pick out ones that would suit me, such as:
- By allowing myself to be happy, I inspire others around me to be happy as well.
- The most simple things in life bring me joy.
- I am willing to be happy now.
- I will focus on the happy moments today will bring.
Reading (or writing) our personalized affirmations first thing in the morning will help set the tone to creating a new thought loop; a healthier one that is aligned with our overall aim to foster movement and growth.
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