Affirmations? Yay or Nay?

RenBowTokyo wrote: »

Do you use affirmations? Do you think they help? If so, which are your favorites?

I know the science is pretty solid on the fact that affirmations actually work, but I gotta say, actually using them/repeating them to yourself feels real awkward.

The only time I ever remember using them was when I'd get really anxious and worked up before an exam and I'd have to calm myself down by reminding myself that I worked/studied/prepared as hard as I could and worrying was pointless.

RenBowTokyo wrote: »

Do you use affirmations? Do you think they help? If so, which are your favorites?

RenBowTokyo wrote: »

CattOfTheGarage wrote: »

What do you mean by affirmations? Like positive thinking mantras you repeat to yoursel, something like that? Or affirmations from other people?

The ones you say to yourself or listen to in order to change your mind set.

Not usually.

The only things I end up repeating to myself is ... to my legs ... "Keep pedalling!" ... when I'm cycling up a long steep hill.

Yep. I use them in the context of CBT and find they work very well for changing the mindset and helping to meet goals. If I'm trying to avoid eating when I'm not really hungry I will sometimes write them in a notebook over and over like sentences had to be Written in school. That sounds crazy but I can get to the end of writing one ten times and no longer feel like emotional eating. I will write them at those times vs say it because it's keeping both mind and hands busy at that point. At the end of writing one ten times my mindset has successfully shifted and I can go on my way having succeeded in not eating when I wasn't hungry.

I use them A LOT. They are what helped me stay positive the first few months I left my abusive relationship. I needed to tell myself I was worthy of something better because for the last 4 years I had been told different.

I have used them through my health journey as well because they keep me focused on my goals. I would say the best thing is to write on sticky notes and tack them to your mirror. You will see them every day and eventually you will have that positive mindset.

I hate negativity. It is something I've fought hard to get away from.

My profile pic says my current affirmation - "When you're struggling, think of your dream body". Totally helps push through those tough few minutes where I'm thinking of not getting to the gym or eating something I shouldn't.

CattOfTheGarage wrote: »

I've never used anything like that. I do suffer from negative self talk so I feel like it may be helpful - but like @43501, I can't get over the awkwardness! Instead I spend a lot of time listening to weight loss related podcasts in order to keep myself in the right headspace.

What you can try if you want, rather than saying them out loud to yourself if you find that odd.. I printed the affirmations on card paper and I read them, and then you can carry them around with you when you need them. I have ones for when I am in labour and they really helped.. but I actually haven't really tried this for my everyday stuff, maybe I should.

Something I can recommend based on my experience as a psychological scientist researching self-affirmation: don't forget to affirm other areas of your life. Are you a good sister, brother, partner, etc? Doing well at work? Feeling spiritual? Write in a journal whenever you can think of these positive things. It can help your health by strengthening your overall sense of self.

I do, or at least have tried in the past. Changing your thinking is definitely something you CAN do.
Actually I read recently that affirmations work best when said ALOUD and actually the more vehement the better (think NLP and Tony Robbins type stuff).

RenBowTokyo wrote: »

Do you use affirmations? Do you think they help? If so, which are your favorites?

Yes, they absolutely help! The most successful and happy people in the world have used positive thinking/affirmations etc. in their lives.

If you're interested in learning more about it, the very famous book "The Secret" explains the power of positive thinking very well and it does come in form of documentary if that interests you more. While a good book, one of my favourites is actually "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz. This book is fantastic for an introduction because it is SO easy to read, and a bit repetitive so it really helps you to understand his message. It is a real eye opener on the reality we have created for ourselves and gives us amazing insight on how we can change our perception to attain everything we need and be happy.

Also, you could do a bit of reading about Buddhist teachings. A couple great things about Buddhism is that it's not a religion, more a way of life, so anyone can follow the teachings regardless of your religious beliefs, and you do not have to identify as a Buddhist to follow the teachings. Guaranteed everyone in the world who has attained complete happiness and success have, knowingly or unknowingly, practiced some Buddhist teachings.

Have fun with it! You'll love the positivity it gives you!

Cheers!
~M

Yes I do. And I am very passionate about the benefits of positive self talk / affirmations. I've also found written positive self talk to be of great use, writing seems to add additional reinforcement. Change your brain change your life. Even the Christian religion speaks of it - Romans 12:1-2; and Philippians 4-8, Ephesians 4:23.