If you have done any goal or life coaching work you probably are familiar with affirmations. It is also likely that you have heard what a handy tool they can be when it comes to the inner work of shifting your mindset in a positive direction or helping you become the best version of yourself or achieving your goals. But if finding happiness really is an inside job, could it only be an affirmation away?

So what exactly are affirmations and how do we incorporate them into our everyday lives and plans? 

Although the word “affirmations” has become part of our everyday vernacular these days, not everyone really understands what they are or how they work. Think of affirmations as that little reminder, boost of confidence or refocus we all need to keep going and believing in ourselves. Positive affirmations not only help calm the mind but are also very good for the soul. They are the words of encouragement when things like stress, overwhelm and chaos kick in. Using affirmations can not only help with reframing negative self-talk and changing inner dialogues but also have a powerful impact on living the life you want.

We talked to Sarah Annanie from MakseLife to discuss the power of affirmations, making them work for you and using them in your planning process. Listen to our chat here: 

Planning & Affirmations

As planners, we know how to use our planners as a tool to help us with our life and achieving our goals. Similarly, affirmations work as a tool also, but when combined with planning those simple words can really have a powerful impact. The act of writing them in your planner will help reinforce your thoughts and mindset. Adding encouraging words on a daily basis into your spreads can truly uplift and empower you. Here are a few tips to help you start incorporating an affirmation practice into your process.

Tips For Using Affirmations

• Start slow and build as you go. 

• Choose affirmations that meet you where you are at and encourage you.

• Keep affirmations visible on your weekly or daily spreads.

• Like planning, it’s ok to change an affirmation to make it work for you.

• Be consistent and make affirmations a habit to achieve your desired goal.

• Have fun, it’s your journey. 

Affirmation vs. Manifestation

Manifestation is also a popular buzzword you may be hearing a lot of these days. Everyone is trying to manifest or speak one thing or another into existence. While manifesting is powerful in its own right, it is not to be confused with affirmations. Manifestations encompass your hopes, dreams and goals. They are the destination and affirmations are the pep talks you need along the road to get you there. 

Be sure to follow Sarah @sarahannanie on Instagram for more inspiration.