Self-affirmation is the act of affirming one’s own worthiness and value as an individual for a beneficial effect (such as increasing one’s confidence or raising self-esteem).

We can use “self-affirmations’ as a positive way to protect our sense of self-by engaging in activities that remind us of who we are. These affirmations can involve family, friends, volunteer work, religion, art and music or other activities that are central to how we see ourselves.

Try taking affirmation walks. Sometimes we might hear or say encouraging and helpful things to ourselves, but still have a hard time believing they are true. We might even know them in our heads, but not connect with them in our hearts. Repeating positive phrases or mantras aloud until they become your internal voice may help. Here are a list of some affirmations/mantras or come up with your own and repeat it to yourself as you take a walk for 10 to 15 minutes regularly.

I am enough.
I’ve got this.
I will figure it out.
I have talents and gifts.
It will all work out.
I have a lot to offer.
I will do great.
It’s okay.
They are lucky to have me.
In the grand scheme of life.
I can do it!
I am capable.
I am honest, smart, funny.
People like and want to be around me.
I am prepared.

 

Kelli Louden, LCSW