There are times when life’s challenges require us to dig deep to find the courage to move forward, but negative thoughts or experiences can undermine our self-esteem. Self-affirmation theory posits that we’re driven to maintain our self-worth when it’s threatened.
Countering negative thoughts about one aspect of ourselves by affirming a different part of our identity can serve as a reminder that our self-worth isn’t connected to the negativity we’re experiencing. Over the past few decades, researchers and therapists have discovered that developing a habit of positive thinking offers numerous benefits for our psychological and physical well-being. Repeating positive phrases can even change our outlook on life.
One way to encourage ourselves to think optimistically is to incorporate affirmations into our daily routine. Affirmations are short, memorable phrases that help boost our sense of self-worth and strengthen our resolve to continue striving toward our goals.
Whether we’re facing a difficult day at work or a big life change, repeating positive affirmations to ourselves throughout the day can help us stay the course and realize our goals. Here are 10 daily affirmations to remind you of your value and help you envision the life you desire.
When You’re Starting Your Day
This is a wonderful day. I’ve never seen this one before.Maya Angelou
When You’re Coping With Stress
The present moment is the only time over which we have dominion.Thích Nhất Hạnh
When You Need a Confidence Boost
Imperfections are not inadequacies; they are reminders that we’re all in this together.Brené Brown
When You’re Dealing With Imposter Syndrome
Am I good enough? Yes I am.Michelle Obama
When You’re Scared To Try Something New
Don’t be afraid of failing. It’s the way you learn to do things right.Marian Wright Edelman
When You Want To Encourage a Child
Dream big and dare to fail.Norman Vaughan
When You’re Faced With a Big Decision
For the life-changing things, you must risk it.Jeanette Winterson
When Self-Doubt Creeps In
Always do what you are afraid to do.Ralph Waldo Emerson
When the Future Seems Scary
Never let the future disturb you. You will meet it, if you have to, with the same weapons of reason which today arm you against the present.Marcus Aurelius
When You’re in Need of Self-Care
Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.Anne Lamott
Featured image credit: Darryl Bush/ Hulton Archive via Getty Images
