WHAT ARE WORDS OF AFFIRMATION?

Words of affirmation are thoughts or words that challenge negative thoughts or perceptions of the self. They are helpful when seeking motivation and boosting self-esteem. They require repetition and regular practice for them to stick.

The science behind it: Self-affirmation theory (Steele, 1998) claims that humans seek to maintain their integrity, their values, and their sense of self. Individuals can deflect stress and/or cope with information that contradicts their sense of self by using affirming thoughts. Words of affirmation are therefore a healthy defense mechanism that helps us survive! (A defense mechanism that is healthy?! Count me in!)

For example, if someone says to you:

"You are doing that wrong. Why can't you get this right?" Your body's natural response might be that you feel threatened and go into defense mode. Self-affirmation theory says that if you respond with something that restores your integrity, something like: "I am capable" or "I am doing everything I can right now to solve this problem," you can feel more regulated, more comfortable, more safe, etc. Therefore, self-affirmation theory says that we can boost our self-esteem, creating a positive perception of the self.