The Power of Positive Affirmations

What is a positive affirmation?

An affirmation is a statement you say to yourself in order to challenge overwhelming negative thoughts or negative beliefs. The goal of using a positive affirmation is to reframe negative thought patterns, boost confidence, and train your mind to respond more positively to challenges and setbacks. Affirmations can serve as a powerful tool alongside your mindfulness practice; they can help shift focus from self-doubt and limitations to possibilities and strengths.

Practicing positive affirmations has shown to reduce stress, improve self-esteem and increase resilience. fMRI studies have indicated an activation of reward centers in the brain. 

Say an affirmation to yourself at any time of need, during a meditation or write them down in the morning or evening. Choose 1-3 that resonate with your work life or write your own! Don’t forget to refresh these frequently. See below for sample affirmations categorized by need:

For Grounding and Calm

• "I am calm, I am in control, I am capable."

• "This moment is temporary, and I can handle it."

• "Breathe in peace, breathe out tension."

• "I release what I cannot control."

• "I am safe, supported, and strong."

For Focus and Clarity

• "One step at a time, one task at a time."

• "I focus on what matters most."

• "I have the power to create solutions."

• "I choose progress over perfection."

• "I am clear, confident, and capable."

For Positivity and Perspective

• "I am doing my best, and that is enough."

• "Every challenge is an opportunity to grow."

• "I choose to see the good in today."

• "I can only control my effort, not the outcome."

• "I am here, and I am grateful."

For Setting Boundaries

• "I honor my work, and I honor my rest."

• "My time and energy are valuable."

• "I can say no without guilt."

• "Leaving work behind is an act of self-care."

• "I create space for work and space for joy."

For Presence

• "When I work, I work. When I rest, I rest."

• "I choose presence over perfection."

• "I am here to live, not just to work."

• "I give myself permission to pause."

• "My worth is not defined by my productivity."

For prioritizing well-being

• "Taking care of myself helps me show up fully."

• "Rest is productive."

• "I make time for what brings me joy."

• "Balance is not perfect; it’s intentional."

• "I deserve a life that feels good, not just looks good."

For Letting go of Stress

• "What I do today is enough."

• "I leave work at work and embrace my personal time."

• "I trust my future self to handle it."

• "Slowing down is not falling behind."

• "I am more than my to-do list."