The Power of Positive Thinking: How to Start Using Affirmations
In today’s world of Instagram and Snapchat, it’s easy to feel bombarded by images of everyone’s flawless lives, perfect beach trips, or whatever else they share on their highlight reel.
This storm of perfect pixels can often lead to comparison and negative self-talk, especially when your own life isn’t going the way you want it to. Fortunately, there are steps we can all take to view ourselves and our lives with love and contentment. One of the easiest ways to do this is by implementing positive affirmations.
What is an affirmation?
Affirmations are simply positive thoughts that affirm things we know to be true, even if we don’t believe they’re true in the moment. In other words, when you speak words of love and light over yourself, you start to actually believe it.
Is there actually science behind this?
Numerous studies have been done on the subject of affirmations. One in particular, conducted by the National Science Foundation in 2013, suggests that positive self-talk can lead to improvement in problem solving skills and academic achievement.
How do I use affirmations?
I know, this all may sound a little silly (and will likely feel even more silly when actually put into practice), but I promise it’s worth it. The most obvious way to practice affirmations is to simply say them aloud. Think of a positive aspect about yourself, your work, or your day, and simply repeat it to yourself in the mirror. There’s a lot of truth to the idea of self-talk being a self-fulfilling prophecy. When you project negativity over yourself and your day, you are far more likely to feel the results of a negative attitude. The same can be said for positivity. If you feel silly saying out loud how amazing, smart, or funny you are, try writing it down instead. Personally, I can take myself more seriously doing this instead of saying the affirmations out loud.
Starting to practice positive self-talk isn’t easy, but once you get into the habit, it truly does pay off in your life. And when you learn to love yourself and believe in the good, it makes it much easier to do the same for others.
Be well, Auburn.
Photography: Zoe L.
Editor in Chief
Born and bred in Huntsville, Alabama, Zoe is studying graphic design with a minor in art history. She hopes to use her degree to pursue a career in the world of magazine publication.
Zoe enjoys binge watching The Office with her best friends and eating Chipotle (often simultaneously). It’s also worth noting that Zoe loves her cat, Ozzy, more than most people. She’ll probably be a crazy cat lady one day, and she’s okay with that.
