“Any idea, plan, or purpose may be placed in the mind through repetition of thought.
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Programming the Mind:
Our belief system is full of ideas that formed when we were children. If we hear something negative once, it likely won't bother us. But after hearing something repeatedly, it creates doubt in our minds, and that doubt makes us feel scared, insecure, and unworthy.
It's important to note that verbal and non-verbal communication could form these beliefs. "You're stupid" is just as painful as negative body language. For example, if a parent regularly kept a physical distance from you as a child, you might be triggered as an adult when anyone maintains a physical distance between you -> because you interpret this to mean that you don't deserve love and attention. Your parent might have been overwhelmed with life and likely didn't intend to create the meaning you assigned to it.
The way to go is to reprogram your belief system. This process has many different strategies, and I will focus on affirmations. It's quick and easy. And you can start practicing this right now :)
Left Foot, Right Shoe:
Affirmations are powerful and life-changing tools. They are so simple. You say a phrase, and it can transform your life.
Here are some examples:
I am beautiful
I am strong
I am confident
I love myself
I am worthy
The list goes on and on. So, I tried one on for size, "I am worthy." The problem is it didn't feel right. It felt like I had put my left foot into my right shoe - aka uncomfortable AF. So, I thought that maybe affirmations weren't for me. But then I was convinced to try again, and I did. It once again didn't feel right.
There was a crucial lesson that I was missing. Repetition increases the comfort in a phrase that is the polar opposite of my beliefs.
I've done so much personal development work over the years. I don't recall anyone telling me that even if an affirmation feels like a lie, keep practicing saying the affirmation until it feels natural and right.
Not sold yet?
Here’s a good example: Have you ever heard a song on the radio and the first two times the song doesn't land with you? But then, on the next listen, the song feels like a piece of your heart reflected on you, and it suddenly feels like home.
Repetition is the key to an effective affirmation practice. You must repeat the phrase over and over until you believe it. It's OK if this process frustrates you because frustration is a great emotion that often leads to surrender.
Once we release our old beliefs, we can welcome new ideas with open arms.
Affirming Growth & Love:
Step one: Identify your biggest limiting beliefs. We have so many of these, but a small handful of about 3-5 stings the most.
Step 2: Flip it and find the opposite. If your limiting belief is "I am unworthy," your affirmation will be "I am worthy."
Step 3: Find a good time in the morning to look at yourself in the mirror and say it 10 times. The morning is the best time to do this because we have more willpower when fresh and rested at the start of the day.
Step 4: Rinse and repeat as many times as necessary.
NOTE: If this process is triggering, make sure to seek out support. Many people are ready to support you on this journey: therapists, counselors, coaches, healers, spiritual leaders, etc. I've worked with many of these people, and all have been great.
Final Thoughts:
I've only recently started using affirmations. Now that I understand how they work, I plan to use them regularly as I continue my journey. I hope you do, too. Because love is the fuel that keeps this journey moving forward. And affirmations are a great way to refuel :)
Amor y Canela,
Monica
