4 Ways Words of Affirmation Help Improve Your Life
You’ve probably heard the phrase “words of affirmation” in conversations about the 5 love languages. The idea is that each person has his or her own way that they receive and show love, one of them being words of affirmation. Words of affirmation are words that convey your love, appreciation, and respect for someone. They're meant to uplift someone, compliment and encourage. Words are a powerful thing and if you can use them for good, you can hack a new level of positive energy in your life. If you’re looking to improve certain areas of your life, you can literally wield positive talk and words of affirmation like a weapon. Here are 4 moments in which to use words of affirmation in your life:
In Your Romantic Relationship
Whether you and your partner take the quiz to figure out your love languages or not, we promise they’ll still deeply appreciate words of affirmation from you. Even if their love language is something different, we guarantee they’ll still feel special if you let them know what a great cook they are or what a supportive partner they are. Maybe they have a wonderful singing voice; maybe you really admire their style; maybe you want to tell them just how assertive they are, what a hard worker they are, how reliable they are, or how sweet they are in moments when you need it. It can be easy to settle in and think your partner knows how you feel all the time. Making an effort to tell them will help create more positive energy in the relationship and make you both feel a stronger connection to each other.
In Your Friendships
How often do you tell your friends what you think of them? Probably not often enough! Just like in relationships, it can be easy to think your friends just know how you feel about them all. Every so often, it can be refreshing to hear exactly what you’re appreciated for. We all get down on ourselves over time, and a reassuring word from a friend can make a huge impact. Make an effort to give your friends words of affirmation; remind them of your favorite qualities about them! Are they great organizers? Are they terrific advice-givers? Are they amazing decorators or hosts? Do you admire their generous nature and giving heart? Act like a true friend and tell them!
To Yourself, Every Morning
Realize it or not, we are constantly talking to ourselves. Stop and think about what you said to yourself today. Was it positive or negative? Were you encouraging yourself or creating limitations? Start being intentional about the self-talk you do. Wake up in the morning, begin with gratitude and then look at yourself in the mirror. Saying things like “I am beautiful,” “I am equipped,” “I am powerful,” “I am intelligent,” “I am the greatest” can do wonders for your psyche, your mood and your overall ability to grow and develop. Some of the world’s most successful people practiced positive self-talk - people like Muhammed Ali and Michael Jordan, Will Smith and others who cite this practice as a key factor in their success.
To Yourself When You’re Working Towards a Goal
Words of affirmation are a powerful way to focus your mental energies when you’re going after a goal. Trying to lose weight or become more fit? Repeat those words of affirmation before, during and after your workouts. You can even wear those positive words with printed motivational sports bras, workout tees, printed leggings and printed tees with custom phrases that fuel you as you exercise. Looking to get a job at a dream company or get cast at an upcoming audition? Print out some motivational phrases and post them in your bedroom so you see them first thing in the morning; on the frig so you see them when you get breakfast; on the bathroom mirror so you see it as you get ready for the day; and finally, by your keys so you see it as you head out the door. Whatever your goal is, whether it’s to make a sports team, get a promotion at work, buy a house, lose weight, or build your strength, if you use words of affirmation, you’ll be showing yourself one of the highest forms of self-love.
