How affirmations and self-love can help you

Life is faster than ever before and keeping up with the pace can sometimes pressure people to leave their own selves behind.

At the same time, ponytails and shaman-like dressed soothsayers keep saying that getting what you want is simply an affirmation away.

There must be middle ground, somewhere. Because standing in front of a mirror, staring at yourself and chanting that you are open to the abundance of the universe may serve up little else than a few wasted breaths.

But nevertheless, self-love and affirmations have become increasingly popular as individuals search for ways to improve their mental health and well-being. It can be a powerful tool, when you know how to use it.

With social media influencers, motivational speakers, healers of all sorts and life coaches enthusiastically promoting self-love and affirmations, psychologist Dr Jonathan Redelinghuys said their potential in enhancing self-esteem and productivity can be fully realised.

The value of self-love and affirmations

He highlighted their value within positive psychology but cautioned against relying on them as the sole solution to mental health challenges. Instead, he emphasised the importance of a comprehensive, holistic approach to mental well-being, which includes self-care practices, therapy, and counselling when necessary.

The first step, he said, is to understand the connection between affirmations and cognitive-behavioural therapy. He explained that the language we use when thinking about ourselves can be influenced by the way we talk to ourselves. The power of the spoken word. By integrating affirmations into our internal dialogue, we can begin to reshape our thought patterns and self-image, ultimately leading to personal growth and a healthier self-perception.

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However, Dr Redelinghuys cautioned against the belief that affirmations alone could solve deep-rooted issues of self-dislike. He suggested addressing the root causes of these feelings and learning to accept both the positive and negative aspects of one’s character.

“By viewing yourself as an integrated whole and embracing the less desirable parts, whatever they may be, individuals can embark on the path toward genuine self-love and self-acceptance.

Dr Redelinghuys pointed out that there wasn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. He said: “Instead people must discover the technique that best suited their unique needs and preferences. For some, visual cues such as writing affirmations on a bathroom mirror and reading them every morning, noon and night might be most effective, while others could benefit more from reciting affirmations aloud whenever they have a moment to do so.”

Dr Redelinghuys said that the importance of genuinely integrating affirmations into your daily life cannot be underestimated.

“Ensuring that these affirmations are rooted in belief and reality, and not overreaching ambitiously, can make them integrate into your life far more easily.”  

He stressed the importance of personalising affirmations, as generic ones might not yield the desired results.

Dr Redelinghuys said: “By tailoring affirmations to your own self-perception and goals, they could become more effective tools for personal growth”.

Consistency is key

Moreover, Dr Redelinghuys discussed the role of consistency and commitment in maximising the benefits of affirmations. He said that regularly practicing affirmations and incorporating them into daily routines could reinforce their positive impact on self-esteem and overall mental well-being.

Dr Redelinghuys also touched upon the value of seeking professional help when necessary. People experiencing psychological difficulties must consider a multimodal approach, including therapy and counselling, to complement their self-care practices.

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Incorporating affirmations into your daily routine can change your life by changing your mindset, promoting self-love, and encouraging personal growth. As you repeat these affirmations, you reinforce the beliefs they represent, gradually rewiring your thought patterns and attitudes. Over time, these positive changes will become ingrained, and can lead to improved mental health, greater resilience, and a more fulfilling life.

Affirmations that you can personalise:

• “I am worthy of love and success.” – This affirmation reinforces your self-worth, leading you to make better choices, form healthier relationships, and pursue your goals with determination. You can insert your own customised detail but keep them as short and memorable as possible.

• “I am in control of my happiness.” – Happiness is a choice, and when you realise that it  empowers you to focus on the positives in life and create your own.

• “I am capable of achieving my dreams.” – This speaks for itself.

• “I am grateful for all the good in my life.” – Never forget to be grateful, and it helps you find contentment emotionally.

• “I am constantly growing and improving.” – Learning is a lifelong process and affirmations like this can keep you motivated to learn new skills and explore new interests

• “I choose to surround myself with positive and supportive people.” – This affirmation helps to create a nurturing environment that supports your growth and self-improvement.

• “I release negative thoughts and feelings.” – Release negativity, let go of stress, and unburden yourself.