Affirmations have been around since the 1920’s, though these days you might find the concept more in the mainstream thanks to practices such as manifestation coming into the limelight. TikTok creators utilize these trends to profit off self-help coaching which teaches the incorporation of affirmations into one’s daily routine, but what exactly are they?
Simply put, affirmations are positive statements used to combat negative thoughts and self-sabotaging behaviors. Through consistent repetition, these affirmations will simmer in your subconscious and invoke change in your behavior and thought processes. Everyone can benefit from it but how do we know which ones to use?
Science Behind Affirmations
Before you question whether this is just another pseudoscience gaining popularity, it is important to recognize the real science behind affirmations. The self-affirmation theory, coined in 1988, has plenty of studies to support the efficacy of maintaining one’s self-identity through positive affirmations. According to an article on Positive Psychology, MRI scans of individuals who practiced positive self-affirmations showed certain neural pathways involved in positive valuation and self-related information processing became increased. This allows us to view different parts of ourselves positively and adapt to situations more easily.
Affirmations for Self-Esteem
There are a variety of affirmations to rewire different parts of our brain, but a common type of affirmation that everyone can benefit from regard self-confidence and esteem. By building up the perception one has of themselves, they will become less stressed and feel better in their own skin which will translate to other areas of their lives.
Personally, I have found that repeating a couple of these affirmations once in the morning and at night have already helped me feel differently. Here are just a few:
“I am strong. I am beautiful. I am loved”
“I can overcome negative thoughts and situations.”
“I trust myself.”
“I don’t need outside validation to be whole.”
“I have control over my emotions. My mood will not be determined by others’ opinions.“
Many sites offer examples of affirmations, but just about anyone could come up with them. All it takes is an open mind and intention. Once you know what you want to change, such as the way you view certain things or the way you react to specific situations, you can easily come up with a simple reinforcing statement to repeat daily. These positive affirmations will soon take effect on the inner workings of your mind and push you to be the change you want to see. Now get out there and start affirming!