As we embark on another stressful, but nonetheless transformative school-year, it is important to create and practice positive affirmations.
What exactly is a positive affirmation?
A positive affirmation is essentially a positive statement that is often repeated numerous times, typically referring to the present moment or a future scenario, which aims to empower and encourage a positive attitude and outcome.
How do these affirmations work?
Positive affirmations are more than just a person speaking or thinking positive thoughts. These affirmations have proven to alter the brain on a cellular level. When practicing positive affirmations, the uplifting statements being spoken are registered by the brain, which produces chemicals with the ability to make a person physically feel happy. Creating a habit of practicing positive affirmations allows the brain to react more quickly in situations that require a bit of positivity. The “neural net” of a person’s brain becomes rewired, resulting in a consistent and more positive thought process.
Positive affirmations literally change the way the brain works. Isn’t that cool?
Are there any studies to back these claims up?
There having been numerous studies about the power of positive affirmations, but the science of these statements can best be explained in a brain-imaging study published in Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, titled “Self-affirmation activates brain systems associated with self-related processing and reward and is reinforced by future orientation.”
How can I use these statements to succeed during a new school-year?
The key is to practice positive affirmations relating to situations having to do with specific values. Use positive affirmations in the areas of your life that you truly and deeply care about, like your career, relationships, and mental health. Allow your positive affirmations to flourish and manifest themselves in your daily life. The typical student might value academics, extracurriculars, and staying in touch with family back at home.
In a school setting, there are ample situations that students have control over. Though a grade on a paper or exam may not be one of them, positive affirmations can still transform these situations for the better.
Some examples:
After performing poorly on an exam…”I am definitely intelligent. I will succeed on the next exam because I will study more efficiently.”
After losing a game…”I am a hardworking athlete and I will constantly improve.”
After an awkward social encounter…”I am going to have more positive social interactions in the future.”
After forgetting to reply to a text…”I care about this person and I will improve the way I communicate in the future.”
Are there different ways to practice positive affirmations?
Be creative. Speak them into practice, write them down, or just think them. The point is to do so often and with intent. Believe what you are speaking and you will be surprised with just how quickly your statements begin to “come true.”
What should I avoid when creating these affirmations?
Don’t use negative words! The words “don’t,” “can’t” and “won’t” form negative statements. Use positive words to bring positive thoughts into action. Instead of using negative words and drawing attention to what you “shouldn’t” do, be confident and use words that inspire and motivate you!
Positive affirmations can pave the way to a happier and more successful life. Why not give it a try?