5 STEPS TO CREATE THE REALITY YOU DESERVE

Candid words, but oh so true. One of the most powerful things you can do for your own personal growth, is to get really clear about the ideal person you intend to be and anchor that through the practice of affirmative statements each morning.

So what exactly are affirmations? Affirmations are positive statements that strengthen what is already true, or help create something you would like to see come to fruition. They are the beginning point of change and the most successful people in the world use them regularly. In fact, there is much scientific evidence to support how affirmations work. Dr. Joseph Dispenza in his book, Evolve Your Brain, explains how the neocortex or ‘thinking brain’ is what allows us to have choices and opinions:

“The one thing I noticed about people who had changes in health is that they had changed their thinking. If they changed their thinking, was the effect in the brain sending a new signal to their body? The answer is yes. Our thoughts have a direct connection to our level of health. We always replace those old patterns with a greater ideal of ourselves. If rehearsed mentally, we will grow new circuits in the brain, the platform in which we stand on to execute a new level of self.”

That said, to truly change your thinking, consistency over time is key.

Below are the steps to creating your personal affirmation statements. It can be fun to do with a friend and/or share with a mentor after. Once you have formulated statements that inspire you through the steps below, say them out loud every morning. It’s important to actually try to feel them in your body – take deep breaths and say them with confidence. If you notice resistance in your mind such as “oh, this is silly”, or “this can’t be true for me” – take another deep breath – honor and acknowledge those thoughts, let them go and stay the course. Affirmations are a way to open up miracles in your life and they absolutely work!

Let’s get started! Grab a blank piece of paper (or a few) and set aside 15 minutes of interrupted YOU time.

1. Think about how you would describe your role model, or someone you aspire to be like. Why do you admire them so much? What characteristics do they have? Are they brave, brilliant, carefree, easy going, serene in chaos or super great at follow through? Write all the traits down on your paper.

2. Now take a few deep breaths and turn your focus inwards. Who are you when you are on top of your game? What aspects of yourself do you want to magnify? Think of all the inner traits that shine within you and how you would describe your best self. Consider any new personal qualities and skills you would like to develop this year also (i.e, creative, optimistic, etc.).

3. Look at what you’ve written and circle the top 5-7 adjectives that you would like to describe the new version of you. Write those words down and look them up in the dictionary. No really, look them up (or Google them). What does it mean to be kind, compassionate, organized, creative, spiritual or devoted? Set a timer and journal about these traits for five minutes.

4. Once you have the definitions down on paper, begin formulating positive statements (see examples below). These statements need to be “I” statements, written in first person. Other tips: Use current tense, write in the affirmative (since your subconscious mind will respond better) and be creative with it. Write whatever inspires you, even if it meanders away from Webster’s definition. Here are some examples:

• Loving – I allow my inner light of love and kindness to glisten all around, through and within me in a bright, present and radiant way; continually uplifting myself and others. I serve as a Divine Example and am effortlessly able to express love in my life. I am loving.
• Powerful – I stand in my authentic strength and inner knowing of exactly what is right for me in any and every given moment. I trust myself. I am prepared for every conversation, situation and decision that comes into my world each and every day. I am always safe. I am powerful.
• Bold – My spirit is brave and courageous. I follow and live my dreams with confidence in a dynamic and profound way. I answer only to myself. It is simple and easy for me to direct my own life. I choose only blissful, fun and fulfilling experiences. I am bold.

5. Take the 21 day challenge!  We know from our friend Stephen Covey of 7 Habits of Highly Effective People that it takes 21 days to form a habit. Think of your strongest, most brilliant, powerful and talented self that will emerge in just a few weeks by you putting in the consistency to start your day off with this reminder of who you truly are.
6. It’s a game-changer; guarantee it!

It’s time to make your AFFIRMATIONS a REALITY!

• Print your affirmation statements
• Set a daily recurring reminder in your phone to say these every morning
• Read them out loud – every single day – for at least 21 days (this takes less than 5 minutes & you’re worth at least that, my friend!)
• Post your statements in the comments below to inspire others and report back – we love celebrating your success!