We are all the biggest champions of our own lives, carrying reserves of confidence within ourselves — if only we can remember to access them. Scientists, therapists, spiritual guides, and life coaches all know this, and it’s one reason there has been such an interest in the science of happiness in recent years. Positive thinking has proved to improve our mood, self-esteem, and overall outlook on life. It’s so powerful, in fact, it may also impact the physical functioning of our brains.
One way to maintain a practice of positive thinking is to employ the use of daily affirmations. Loosely defined, daily affirmations are short phrases or mantras that we can write down or repeat to ourselves throughout the day as a reminder to focus on the good — whether that’s being kind to ourselves, feeling grateful, or believing we can achieve an ambition. These mantras are a way to check in with ourselves while also providing a sort of psychic corridor toward whatever it is we’re aiming for. Below are 20 quotes that can be used as daily affirmations, printed out and placed next to a mirror, or simply held as tiny reminders throughout the day.
On Being Yourself
You are loved just for being who you are, just for existing.
Ram Dass, spiritual teacher
I am deliberate and afraid of nothing.
The chance to love and be loved exists no matter where you are.
Am I good enough? Yes, I am.
Who you are inside is what helps you make and do everything in life.
Nothing can dim the light that shines from within.
I’m giving you permission to root for yourself and while you’re at it root for those around you, too.
Embrace the glorious mess that you are.
On Choosing Positivity
Optimism is a choice. Kindness is a choice. Giving is a choice. Respect is a choice. Whatever choice you make makes you. Choose wisely.
Every day above earth is a good day.
Gratitude is a celebration we are all invited to.
Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.
Bravery is not the absence of fear. Bravery is feeling the fear, the doubt, the insecurity, and deciding that something else is more important.
Each day is a new opportunity. I chose to make this day a great one.
Louise Hay, motivational author
On Trusting the Journey
Make way for the unprecedented and watch your reality rearrange yourself.
You must do the things you think you cannot do.
Your life is already a miracle of chance waiting for you to shape its destiny.
I think that little by little, I’ll be able to solve my problems and survive.
I am worthy of what I desire.
Conscious breathing is my anchor.
Featured Image Credit: Solen Feyissa/ Unsplash
Joyce Chen
Joyce Chen is a writer, editor, and community builder based in Seattle, Washington.
