How conscious, self-directed kindness helps you reach your goals

If someone asked you to define who you are, how would you respond? It’s an interesting question, and one that many people spend their entire lives seeking to answer.

The sad truth is that many of us are our own worst critics, and the way we see ourselves is often not the way we are seen.

The good news is that you are in complete control of creating the life you want. By reframing our perspective, we can start to look at a more realistic, comprehensive image of ourselves.

So what’s the first step? Practicing positive affirmations.

What are affirmations?

Affirmations are an effective technique because they go beyond one specific goal. When done correctly, affirmations can guide you toward a life of fulfillment and help you unlock your full potential.

For example, let’s imagine you use the affirmation “I am worthy of love,” and then you meet the man or woman of your dreams. You don’t stop practicing affirmations simply because you met your goal. Now your affirmation will change to something new like, “I am in a relationship filled with respect and trust.” The beauty of affirmations is that they are constantly changing, and it’s completely up to you the direction you want them to go.

Also, it’s important to keep your affirmations the present tense because on a subconscious level, your mind will work harder to manifest the thought into reality if it is encouraged to provide immediate results.

How do positive affirmations benefit the brain?

1. Boost your ability to solve problems under pressure. According to a study led by Carnegie Mellon University’s David Creswell, self-affirmation can improve a person’s problem solving skills. 

2. Increase your self-awareness. By becoming more conscious of your thoughts, you lower the chance of being sucked into a downward spiral of negative thinking.

3. Help with addiction. Alcoholics Anonymous use daily affirmations as part of their therapy program. Positive affirmations help rewire the alcoholic’s brain to create new healthy habits.

4. Allow you to focus on what’s important. Self-affirmation “works because it acts as a defense mechanism by reminding us of the things in life that we cherish, thereby broadening the foundation of our self-worth,” according to research led by University of Pennsylvania psychologist Christopher Cascio.

Remember, “I am” is our consciousness. What we attach to “I am,” we become. If you make positive affirmations part of your daily routine, you will become the person you’ve always wanted to be.

Rose Caiola
Inspired. Rewired.