Mindfulness offers us the opportunity to choose what we pay attention to. In our busy lives, we often operate in default mode, paying attention to the negative, the things that need fixing or changing. This habit is a recipe for discontentment, frustration and even depression, for our energy moves in the direction of the mind’s focus.
Choosing to focus on the positive is not about bypassing reality or denying the range of human emotion, it’s about balancing out our habitual negativity bias. When we start our day with a dose of positivity, we strengthen the neural pathways that help us see the good. Morning affirmations can be a powerful method of promoting positive change in ourselves and in our lives.
What Are Morning Affirmations?
Positive morning affirmations are brief phrases which have the power to influence our thoughts and attitudes over time. The most beneficial affirmations are spoken in the present tense, as if they were already true. For example, ‘I am energetic’ has a more powerful effect on our psyche than ‘I will try to maintain my energy.’
The best daily morning affirmations are those that have the most personal relevance for you. When choosing a daily affirmation, it can be helpful to take a moment to sit and be still. Breathe deeply and ground your awareness in the body. Ask yourself what the heart wants most, what it needs to feel whole and complete. Stay open to whatever arises.
When a particular desire comes forward, see if you can stay with it for longer. A phrase such as ‘I want my boss to thank me’ may become ‘I want to feel appreciated,’ then transform into ‘I am confident regarding my own self-worth.’
You may resonate deeply with one or a few good morning affirmations from the list below. Once you’ve chosen an affirmation, speak it aloud to yourself (preferably in the mirror) as part of your morning routine. Stick with your affirmation for one week or more, and observe how it changes for you over time.
Morning Affirmations to Start Your Day Positively
Self-Love and Confidence:
Success and Abundance:
Health and Well-Being:
Relationships and Connection:
Positivity and Mindfulness:
Personal Growth and Learning:
Creativity and Inspiration:
Gratitude and Appreciation:
Confidence in Facing Challenges:
Focus and Productivity:
Adventure and Exploration:
Inner Peace and Serenity:
Financial Abundance:
Adventure and Boldness:
Communication and Expression:
Optimism and Positivity:
Spirituality and Inner Connection:
Morning Affirmations FAQs
Do morning affirmations work?
Morning affirmations work wonders to help guide the mind’s attention to what’s going well in the moment, particularly within ourselves. Repeating true, personally relevant, positive phrases can counterbalance our negativity bias and help us identify with our most beneficial qualities.
How many affirmations should I use?
You should use no more than 3 morning affirmations for today. Mostly, because your morning affirmation should be more than just something you say when you awaken, then forget. Your affirmation should be something you can remember and keep returning to throughout your day.
Can anyone benefit from morning affirmations?
Anyone can benefit from morning affirmations, although those who are also practiced in mindfulness may benefit more. Mindfulness helps strengthen self-awareness and focus. Mindfulness helps us notice when we’re acting in opposition to what has been spoken. It gives us the opportunity to self-correct and choose to embody our mantra instead.
How long does it take to see results from morning affirmations?
How long it takes to see results from morning affirmations is something that will vary from person to person. Those who combine affirmations with a mindfulness practice may have an easier time embodying their morning positive affirmations, as well as recognizing when they’re not.
Can morning affirmations replace professional help for mental health issues?
Morning affirmations are not a replacement for professional help with mental health issues. However, they can be part of an effective holistic therapy program. Your therapist may even help guide you in selecting relevant daily affirmations.
What if I don't believe the affirmations at first?
It’s common not to believe your affirmations at first. You may feel awkward saying positive things about yourself, especially if your inner voice has been negative for quite some time. Bringing mindfulness and self-compassion to your affirmation practice can help you baby-step your way into more positive self-talk.
Can I use the same affirmations every day?
Using the same affirmations every day may be preferred, at least for a little while. For many of us, it takes time to truly believe and embody a positive affirmation. When we repeat the same phrase everyday, we can watch our relationship to it change. That said, there may be a time when you grow out of an affirmation, and you need a new one!
How long should I spend on morning affirmations?
Just like meditation practice, the more time you spend on your morning affirmations, the better. That said, we have to be practical when it comes to our morning routine. Try saying your affirmation aloud, then spending a few minutes observing how it feels in your body. Repeat the affirmation again before you move on with your day.
Can morning affirmations help with stress and anxiety?
Studies show affirmations can help reduce stress and anxiety, particularly when they guide us toward recognizing that adverse reaction to stress is a normal part of being human. For example, an affirmation such as ‘I give myself permission and space to feel what I feel’ can help us let go of anxiety by no longer fighting it.
Can I use morning affirmations as a couple or with my family?
It’s perfectly ok to use morning affirmations as a couple or family, especially if you have shared goals, or if the affirmation is related to your relationship. Generally, your morning affirmation should be personal and relevant for you. Each of us has different needs that are worthy of their own unique words of nourishment.
Disclaimer
Please note that morning positive affirmations and the creative content herein are not to be perceived as or relied upon in any way as medical or mental health advice or treatment. If you are experiencing distress or a mental health crisis, please seek the support of a trained medical or mental health professional.
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