AFFIRM YOUR WAY TO POSITIVITY

As a psychological counsellor, I am privy to many challenges that people face. It has been a humbling experience to see successful people and achievers struggle with so many mental health issues and self-doubts. Some mental health issues are not obvious. But that does not make them any less real.

I started looking for solutions and techniques to help people source strength internally and sculpt the life they love.

This is when ‘Positive Psychology’ entered my life. Since then, I have applied the principles on myself and my clients. It has been rewarding to see people make progress and find happiness.

Positivity attracts positivity. Cheer and enthusiasm can be constants in your life.

In this uncertain life, amidst the cynical society, how is this possible?

The answer to this is simple – ‘Positive Affirmations.’

Positive affirmations are positive phrases or statements that foster self-empowerment and challenge your negative thoughts. The concept of positive affirmations is based on science and has been proven to help relieve stress, anxiety, and negative thought patterns.

Repeating the affirmations aloud reassures the mind and reminds you of the kind of person you are and what you stand for. This boosts self-esteem.

How do we put this into practice?

The idea behind this is simple. Pick a phrase that is helpful for your self-growth and repeat it multiple times.

The real success, though, lies in picking the right phrase that would help you become a better version of yourself. To achieve this, the first step involves a baseline assessment of who you are - your value system, fears, and strengths.

For example, a manager who has a fear of public speaking must assure themself with lines such as –

“I am confident.”

“My knowledge has gotten me so far.”

“I am good at communication.”

“I will step on the podium and connect with the audience well.”

“Anything is possible if I set my mind to it.”

Consider another example of someone with a ‘body-image’ issue. If you are not confident about how you look, your affirmations should include statements like –

“I am confident and beautiful.”

“Body shape or size does not define beauty.”

“I am healthy and will work towards a holistic health improvement.”

The important thing is to do this consistently every day in front of the mirror, without dismissing any statement as less important. Make sure your self-assessment is realistic and based on facts. This helps identify the areas that need improvement or narrow down those thoughts that are laced with self-doubt.

Once you have identified the areas that could use some improvement, phrase the sentences clearly in the present tense.

Make sure you repeat them aloud often, preferably 2 – 3 times every day. Over time, your mind starts believing these as facts and positivity becomes an integral part of your thought patterns and behaviour.

There is no limit on the number of affirmations you can have or the number of times they must be repeated. The process depends on your goals and the areas of improvement that you have identified.

Set aside at least 15 minutes per day on this. It is preferable to do this in the mornings before you begin work for the day. This reminder gives you a sense of purpose and positivity to power through the day.

Like any good habit, the results are imminent with consistency. Be committed when framing the sentences and repeat them continuously for at least a month. At the end of the month, you can review and evaluate if the statements are still relevant or if you have overcome the fear.

Often, our mind dismisses simple solutions. The concept of Positive Affirmations might sound simple but the results are permanent and long-standing.

The repetition of positive statements helps drown out criticisms and ensure you operate at your full potential. It also ensures that you spend your time and energy on the things that you can control, and accept the things that are beyond your sphere of influence.

If the affirmations you have phrased motivate you to reach your goals, help you focus, and give you clarity of mind, you are doing this right.

If you have any problems phrasing the affirmations or benefitting through this technique, do consult a positive psychology professional to help and guide you through the process of self-discovery.

Positive psychology, in particular, is about introducing you to the best version of yourself. It aims to make typical people feel better and achieve better.

We sometimes dismiss some fears as inconsequential and try to tough through situations without dealing with the underlying insecurity. This won’t help in the long run and might result in anxiety and stress.

Affirming yourself of your potential and dreams will help you take a small step toward your wellness journey. It is simple yet rewarding and also scientifically backed.

Take that first step today. It is totally worth it!

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https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0BTVPP69N