Self-affirmations or positive affirmations is a term that is used often when people talk about self-esteem and mental health but what does it actually mean, and does it really help?
Before we get into it, let's first define self-affirmations; in simple terms it is your ability to continuously believe in your worth, and have a strong positive sense of self in general, not just in specific areas of your life. For example, it is very normal for a person to feel bad after failing a test, being self-affirmative means that this person will not conceptualize themselves as a total failure. This is important because it's hard to live up to potential we don't think we have, and it is much easier to do better next time and be motivated to work harder when we believe we can.
How Can Self-Affirmation Boost Self Esteem?
Creating a Positive Mindset: Being self-affirmative allows us to focus on our strengths and capabilities. Seeing and focusing on our strengths allows us to nurture them and build on them.
Increasing Self-Confidence and Social-Confidence: Continuous self-affirmation can reinforce a sense of self-worth which helps us be more confident in social settings, and therefore leads to strong meaningful relationships. This enhancement in self- worth can also give us the confidence to pursue our goals and face challenges.
Reducing Negative Self Talk and Increasing Self Compassion: When we think of ourselves positively our tendency of having self-deprecating thoughts decreases, and our ability to be kind to ourselves increases. Everyone can have self-doubt, and being capable of self-compassion and using positive statements when addressing ourselves can help us overcome it.
Increased Resilience to Criticism: When we practice self-affirmation, we become more resilient to criticism, as it gives us a solid foundation of self-acceptance and belief in our abilities.
1. Personalize Your Affirmation!
Nevertheless, many see therapy as a financial and time-extensive indulgence. However, in order for some to commit to the variety of self-care acts that will be discussed in this blog, one must address the trauma and develop skills to overcome anxiety and depression symptoms that may hamper your progress in changing behavior, thoughts, or feelings about yourself and your life.
2. Practice makes perfect!
It involves paying attention to the present moment and accepting your thoughts and feelings without judgment. You can practice mindfulness through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few deep breaths throughout the day.
3. Believe it!
It helps to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost self-esteem. Find an activity that you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, or dancing, and try to do it for at least 30 minutes a day.
4. Make it fun and visual!
Lack of sleep can lead to increased stress and anxiety, as well as depression. Approximately 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night is usually recommended
5. Think about your achievements!
Social connections such as hanging with friends and family, or joining a group or club that lends itself to your interests. In addition, volunteering is also a great way to connect with others while giving back to your community.
6. Catch yourself in the act!
It's okay to decline invitations or requests that do not align with your priorities, values, or rest schedule. Saying no can be difficult, but it's a crucial step in taking care of your mental health, and anxiety, and avoiding burnout.
7. Be realistic and grateful!
Set goals that are realistic to you and your life, remember that people have different struggles, don't compare yourself to others. Focus on what you’re grateful for, and what YOU can accomplish.
Finally, remember that all this takes time, do not be hard on yourself and don't expect yourself to change your negative self-talk in a day. Be patient and kind with yourself and watch yourself grow! As helpful as affirmations can be, we sometimes require additional help, so don’t hesitate to reach out to request a free phone consultation. Our therapists can help you increase your ability to be self-affirmative and reflective, and help you replace negative self-talk to a more positive and empowering way of thinking. Do it because you’re worth it!
Ready to start your journey to wellness? Contact us today to request a free phone consultation or join one of our groups.
About Wellness Tree Counseling...
Our mission at Wellness Tree Counseling is to promote wellness through a culturally sensitive lens so that individuals, families and communities are encouraged to rise to their full potential and engage life in meaningful ways.
Our vision is to provide the BIPOC community with comprehensive holistic care that empowers and equips them with skills to work toward improved mental health and well-being. We take great pride in treating the whole-person.
At Wellness Tree Counseling, we value treating our clients and community with C.A.R.E. (Compassion, Affirming, Respect, & Empathy).
To learn more about our services, please visit www.wellnesstreecounseling.com
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