Say it! Affirmations are Powerful

Positive affirmations are short statements that you can say to yourself to help build your self confidence. Over time, using affirmations can help replace negative thoughts with more positive thoughts, resulting in a healthier state of mind.

If you are anything like me, your inner voice may be more like an inner critic. I often wonder why I talk to myself in a way that I would never talk to a friend, let alone Sofia! So I decided to stop allowing unkind thoughts about myself to pass unchecked and unchallenged.

Of course, this is easier said than done, but awareness and self-compassion are key. Self talk often pops up, uninvited, and it can take some time to realize it is happening. When I notice critical thoughts, first I tell myself to stop. And then I replace the negative thoughts with one or more positive ones. And then, I usually have another negative thought and do it again... a few times. Haha, can you relate? Second, I try not to give myself a hard time for having negative thoughts! I know I may never be able to stop negative thoughts entirely, so if I am catching myself and then changing my thoughts, that is good enough. And I also acknowledge myself for getting better all the time.

What does this sound like? Something like this:
I didn't go for my run today. It's late and I'm too tired, and I have to make dinner.
Oh my god, that is the third workout I skipped this week. I'm awful. I'm so lazy. So tired. I must be getting old, too, no, I am definitely getting old. I saw some new white hairs this morning. I think I am putting on weight...
Hang on. Stop. Stop that. 
I am not lazy. I am a hard worker. I have been working hard all day. Yes, I skipped 3 workouts this week. But I did 2, that is really good for this busy week. I am a strong, fit woman. My body is strong. I am so grateful for my healthy body. I enjoy working out and I have time for a run tomorrow. It can wait until tomorrow. Tonight I am tired and I need to give my body rest. 

It is true that the only person you can control is yourself. The only person you can change is yourself. Everywhere you go, there you are! That is why it is so important to be kind to yourself. To be gentle with yourself. To accept yourself. And to be your own best cheerleader. 

You may have noticed a series of positive affirmations coming up on my feed lately. Try them out. Repeat them often, maybe in front of a mirror. No one is perfect, and yet, everyone is valuable and deserves to hear kind words. You are no exception, and I encourage you to make it a point to speak kindly to yourself. See how it feels.