An affirmation is the beginning point. It opens the way. You are saying to your subconscious mind, “I am taking responsibility. I am aware there is something I can do to change.”               – Louise L. Hay

If you’re looking for ways to improve your attitude and confidence, a popular tool these days to consider using is the affirmation. While you may have heard of affirmations, you may be wondering how they work.  It helps to first understand what an affirmation actually is, how to develop one, and then how to implement it.

Affirmations are simple little tools to help you have a positive attitude and frame of mind.  They are statements you create and repeat over and over again.  They are helpful for helping you to get motivated or get through a tough situation.

An example of an affirmation is, “I can do it!”  If you’re trying to hike uphill and you repeat this statement to yourself, you’re more likely to make it to the top.  Affirmations can help you to get through any task, though, not just those that are physical.  Most affirmations begin with the phrase “I can” or “I will.”

Unfortunately, for many people negative self-talk is common.  You may catch yourself saying things like, “I’ll never get this done.”  If you say that to yourself over and over again, chances are you won’t get it done. 

Negative self-talk is devastating, but positive self-talk can do the opposite.  It can build you up so that you have the confidence and attitude you need to get through any challenge.  The first thing you need to do to implement affirmations is to become aware of how you speak to yourself.

You’ll also need to develop some positive affirmations to replace the negative talk or to just repeat when you’re facing a challenge.  Affirmations will work best when they’re personal to you.  Think about the challenges you face and what types of statements will fit you best.

As you work to create unique affirmations, it helps to think about your life.  What are your talents and skills?  These positive attributes will translate well to positive affirmations you can use.  You’ll also want to think about your goals.

Making a list of your goals will help you to tailor your affirmations to the things going on in your personal experience.  For example, if you have a lot of challenges at work, you’ll want to create a list of affirmations specific to your occupation.

Once you’ve developed a list of affirmations, you may want to settle on one or two that are the most important.  Look at what’s going on in your life and where you’re struggling most and focus on one or two affirmations that will help you overcome them.

After selecting the most important affirmations, write them down.  Keeping your affirmations in prominent places in your environment can help you to remember them when you need them most. 

If you’re not comfortable posting them, write them down on a small card and keep them in your pocket.  Understanding how affirmations work can help you to have a positive attitude and accomplish your goals.

Your partner in positive affirmation,