Affirmations are short phrases that affect the subconscious mind and mould feelings, behaviours, and attitudes. They help to reprogram existing behaviours and thoughts, leading one to greater success and positive action.
Most of us have an internal dialogue that is often primarily negative. We repeat negative statements in our minds without even being aware of what we are doing or thinking. Telling ourselves that we are lazy, often make mistakes, can’t do something, or will fail, brings those exact undesirable results into being. This negative self-talk limits our potential, sets us up for failure, drains our energy, and exaggerates real and perceived weaknesses and shortcomings.
The use of positive affirmations is a technique to change this negativity into something positive and empowering. It is a process of becoming aware of daily thoughts and choosing to think positive, self-affirming ones.
Children generally have no idea in regards to their internal dialogue. Teaching them to pay attention to their thoughts and to focus their efforts on positive attitudes and desires provides a powerful life skill.
The words in an affirmation help to focus on the aim, objective, or situation one wants to achieve or create.
Affirmations have three elements:
- They are phrased in the first person present. For example, “I am calm and relaxed.”
- They are positive. For example, “My body is healthy and functioning in a good way.”
- They are personal. For example, “I contribute to class by sharing my ideas.”
By affirming what you want in life, you mentally and emotionally make it true. By repeating the words you focus your mind on your goal, and create a mental image of the desired result. These mental images imprint on the subconscious mind and transform your habits, behaviour, reactions, and attitudes.
Learn more about how to effectively use affirmations with kids and teens by becoming a member of YIMS Teacher’s Lounge.
