Morning Motivation: “An affirmation opens the door. It's a beginning point on the path to change.” — Louisa Hay

You know, there's something incredibly potent about turning our toughest moments into affirmations. It's not about sugarcoating the past; it's about reclaiming our narrative. I've been blessed enough to be running youth workshops for the past several years now in schools around Montgomery-, Howard-, and Prince George's- counties, and I often tackle this concept of affirmations into songs head-on.

One such question was something I asked several of my pre-teen clients this past week: "What would you say to those who tried to tear you down, using not fists, but the strength of your words?"

The responses were nothing short of epic:

• "I'm in control of my body, I'm worthy of what I desire, I overcome my fears by following my dreams and I'm always inspired"
• I'm not going to shame myself for my shape, I am always going to love and take care of myself, I'm always going to be myself, and not change for anyone",and
• "Every day I am happier, every day I burn brighter, every time I get wiser, I am a fighter"

What would YOU say to those who tried to tear you down in the past?

The Essence of "I Am"

Of course, I believe in leading by example, so when it comes to asking my teen clients to write response songs of their own, I needed to give them an example of my own.

You know, because that helps them feel a little less vulnerable and silly. And - most importantly - it shows them that cognitive reframe can be super effective, powerful, and downright fun.

This concept fueled the creation of "I Am," a track that featured on the album of the same name last year - and was nominated for the Best Pop Album Wammy!

It's a song built on the premise that our thoughts sculpt our reality. Embedding affirmations into music isn't just an artistic choice; it's a strategy for life, a way to make these powerful statements an integral part of our everyday mindset.

Check out the video here:

Your Playlist, Your Narrative

Now, let's flip the script to you. Think about the music that fills your days. Does it reflect the narrative you want for your life? While all music has its place and time, there's something uniquely empowering about writing your own lyrics, your own affirmations. It's about setting the tone for your life, one song at a time.

What if you took the reins, crafting songs that echo your truth, your journey?

What if your teenager had the opportunity to cognitively reframe their struggles into songs? It's not just about making music; it's about authoring your life's soundtrack, ensuring every beat, every lyric, resonates with your core.

Step Into Your Story

I'm inviting you to dive into this process. Whether it's joining our workshops, sharing your journey, or simply taking a moment to pen down your affirmations, remember: every word you write is a step towards the life you're meant to lead.

Let's redefine our narratives, together.

Learn more about Empowerment through Songwriting coaching here.

Want more?

• Click here to read the "Music + Mental Health" blog.
• Click here to listen to the "Reconnect with your Teenager" podcast
• Click here to join Emma G Nation for exclusive content over on Patreon.
• Click here to find out more about, or make a tax deductible donation to Youth Expression through Songwriting coaching.

When you're ready, here are the three main ways we can work together:

• One on one coaching - helping you express yourself safely and healthily, rewrite your perceptions of yourself, and the way the world perceives you: one powerful song at a time?even if you've never written a song before.Perfect for those of you who are interested in unconventional coaching.
• Commissioned song - harnessing your brand, business or organization in one powerful anthem that can be used for teambuilding and rapport, brand-building, and advertising.Perfect for companies, organizations, or entrepreneurs wanting to enhance or improve workplace culture, and are mission, vision, and purpose oriented.
• Edutainment + workshopping - using keynote speaking and music together to elevate your business, organization or event: specializing in stress management, developing and maintaining productive and positive workplace culture, mental and emotional health and well-being, and the JEDI mindset [Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion].Perfect for event planners and coordinators who are looking for something impactful for their next retreat, conference, or training day.

Have an amazing day on purpose!

Emma G