Written by M’Lisa Jackson, LCSW
One way to replace critical thoughts quickly is by using affirmations.
What is an affirmation?
- An affirmation is helpful if it is in first person and in the present tense (such as “I am”).
- An affirmation is helpful if it is brief.
- An affirmation should be positive.
- An affirmation should be time-oriented, such as “each day,” “today”, etc.
- An affirmation should be specific.
- Remember that you can nourish yourself with affirmations any time, any place.
Filling your mind with positive thoughts will help you get your head in the right place as you are making changes toward a different lifestyle. Memorize a few, or write some down. You may choose to keep them in your wallet or pocket for times you feel discouraged.
The following is a list of affirmations. Pick a few and make them your own.
- Today I am actively making choices that will lead to a life of joy.
- I realize that the only way to have a solid relationship with someone else is to build it on trust. I openly commit to having integrity in my relationships with others.
- Trying to force results and control others is frustrating and seldom yields any long-term benefit. Today I accept that the only thing I can truly control is my approach to life. I will make it a positive one.
- Today I will not take myself and my troubles so seriously. I will gladly find something to laugh about.
- The gateways to wisdom and knowledge are always open to me.
- I eagerly look forward to the future.
- My grateful heart recharges my soul and revitalizes my body.
- I accept every part of me, even the parts I am just learning to like.
- I respect and protect my body because my health is important to me.
- I rise above all limitations. I am divinely guided and inspired.
- I am doing the best I can with the understanding, knowledge, and awareness I have.
- Today I celebrate all that I am and all that I will become.
- I listen with love to my body’s messages.
- I marvel at the beauty that surrounds me.
- It is now safe for me to forgive all of my childhood traumas. I am free.
- Peace begins with me. The more peaceful I am inside, the more peace I have to share with others.
- My mind is a tool that I can choose to use in any way I wish.
- Today is the future I created yesterday.
- Other people respect me because I respect myself.
- I look forward with enthusiasm to the adventures of the day.
- I now accept and appreciate the abundant life the Universe offers me.
- I breathe freely and fully. Breath is the basis of life.
- No person, place, or thing has any power over me, for I am the only thinker in my mind.
- I am as successful as I make up my mind to be.
- I recognize my body as a good friend.
- I now release anger in positive ways. I love and appreciate myself.
- I take a deep breath and allow myself to relax. My whole body calms down.
- I grow beyond my family’s limitations and live for myself. It is my turn now.
- I rejoice in other’s success, knowing that there is plenty for us all.
- I am willing to release all patterns of criticism.
- There is no need for me to struggle. I trust the Universe to take care of me.
- I have my own set of talents and abilities.
- The past has no power over me. I am renewed, refreshed, and reborn into a delicious new world.
- My inner quest is rewarding and provides me with many answers.
- I work for enjoyment and satisfaction—not just to earn a living.
- I go to sleep at night feeling great contentment. I am at peace.
- I might have some faults, but I’m still a good person.
- I care about myself and other people.
- I accept who I am.
- I love myself.
- I am a good person, not a mistake.
- I am good and nobody is perfect.
- I embrace both my good and bad qualities.
- Today I take responsibility for everything I do and say.
- I am becoming a better person every day.
- I am a sensitive person with rich emotional experiences.
- Each day I do the best I can.
- Even though I forget sometimes, I am still a good person.
- Even though bad things happened to me in the past, I am still a good person.
- I am here for a reason.
