Kids are tough, man.
Some days I just don't understand why they are the way they are (no judging here, we've all been there), but something that has started making a positive impact in the lives of my children and I, are practicing affirmations.
The habit of healthy and positive self-talk and using affirmations daily has boosted their self-confidence and has promoted a sense of resiliency. The affirmations have helped us to maintain positivity in our home and helps them to focus on what comes naturally to them and their disposition. I love being told what a good mommy I am.
There is something so fulfilling when being told positive things about ourselves, and it is that positive feedback that often motivates us to maintain good behavior. And the same can be said for our children. In a world where there are many expectations about how we should excel, what we should be doing and how well, it is important to proactively boost our children's confidence by acknowledging their greatness before they feel discouraged. In life, there are so many outlets telling us and our children what we need to be doing to be IT, to be the "best of the best", instead of waiting until they are feeling down and jarred, be on the offense and tell them how wonderful they are, every chance you get!
Positive affirmations are statements or key words that are encouraging and are used to motivate. Affirmations help to boost their self-esteem and promote a mindset of growth. Just a few impactful words can work against the intrusive negative thoughts and feelings. Engaging in self-talk and positive affirmations is a flexible practice that requires only a small amount of time and can be carried out virtually anywhere. Depending on your child's preferences, they may find it beneficial to recite affirmations in front of a mirror or to write them down for a bedtime reflection. The key is to establish a routine that integrates this habit into your daily life. In our case, we incorporate affirmations into our morning school commute. I have found that when we review Finley's affirmations at the beginning of the day, it sets the stage with a positive tone and provides a sense of confidence and protection for him while he is at school.
My dad has always said, what we call our children, what we speak over our children, and what we say to our children, forms who they are.If you tell your child he's doomed for trouble, I would assume trouble is knocking at your doorstep, conversely, if you are telling your child how smart they are and encourage them with positive self-talk, I believe that will play a significant role in who they become and can greatly influence their development.
There is no rule book, there are not specific affirmations that are more beneficial and effective than others- you know your child better than anyone, speak to their disposition, their temperament and their weaknesses. The goal is to combat those weaknesses and empower them, to strengthen their temperament and boost their overall confidence.
Remember, there is not a right or wrong way to feel, but certain thoughts and feelings serve your mind better than others. There is not a clear and concise way to control the rollercoaster of life and the low lows one endures but shifting your perspective and practicing positive self-talk can help combat any and all situations with an emphasis on maintaining a positive mindset.
Creating a habit of positive thinking and self-love through positive affirmations will be advantageous for parents, children, anyone else who engages in this practice. It is our responsibilities to assist our young ones in cultivating their mental well0being and boosting their self-esteem!
Do you and your family practice positive affirmations?? What does your routine of positive self-talk look like? Is this the first you've heard of affirmations?
XO, Kelleen
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