Update: I recently made a YouTube video that demonstrates the type of effective positive affirmations I am discussing below, which can be found here.
As many of you already know, I've been working on a series of positive affirmations. If you haven't seen or heard them, you can listen to the podcasts here or view the YouTube videos here.
As I've been making these affirmations, I've begun to learn a lot about what works and what does not when it comes to improving your mood. As you probably know, focusing on negative thoughts simply makes you feel worse. Thinking over and over about your problems, your worries and your fears simply exacerbates them. When confronted with problems, it's best to deal with them quickly, put them aside and don't allow them to cloud your thoughts. Easier said than done, I know.
But what I hadn't fully realized until now are what positive affirmations work the best. I knew that negative thoughts were bad, but I have discovered that - even more than thinking positive thoughts - it's so VERY important to appreciate where you are RIGHT NOW. To feel good and positive emotions about where you are RIGHT NOW.
Rather than saying, I can't wait to get that new promotion or I'm excited about the new house I'm buying, it's so much better to say, I am happy right now. I am content and at peace right now.
There is a concept in the Christian religion that we are to speak those things that we desire as though they already are. And I don't know if it's because we're creating our mood or our minds actually believe it, but saying the things that you want as if they presently exist really works.
Don't believe me? Try it for yourself.
Try this mantra for yourself. Sit quietly for a few minutes before you begin to breathe and focus. Minimize all distractions around you and try to find as quiet a spot as possible. Now as you are breathing in deeply in and out, repeat the following words:
I am happy.
I am at peace.
I am content with what I have.
I am grateful for my friends.
I am grateful for my family.
I am grateful for my health.
I am happy and content.
All is well in my life.
My life is good.
All is at peace.
Now repeat as often as needed and notice the difference in how you feel about your life right now - in the moment.
Be Blessed :-)
