Now that we’re more than a full week into the New Year, it’s time to ask: “How are you faring with your resolutions?” This year, rather than resolve to create a new habit, I promised myself to continue with one I got back into last year. Morning affirmations.
Zig Ziglar famously said: “People often say motivation doesn’t last. Well neither does bathing – that’s why I recommend it daily.” It takes practice, but when we wake up every morning and make focusing on the space between our ears part of our routine, we’re becoming aware of our thought patterns. That can help for everything – whether it’s choosing to go without that second donut, choosing to communicate productively in a work meeting, or choosing to go the extra mile to help someone in need.
It’s why I so loved this video – that went viral with more than 14 million views- of a father giving his daughter the pep talk she needs to start the day.
Ron Alston, the father in the video, knows a thing or two about starting the day right. Not only is he a personal trainer, he’s a wellness and life coach, who makes his living teaching his clients that they are powerful, positive, brilliant individuals. But Alston says his daughter, Aliya, is the greatest client he has.
Alston also says he didn’t come up with the idea all by himself – his own father used to give such motivational speeches in the mirror when he was a kid. Which just may be the best lesson of all – that positivity is contagious, as viral as a video, and possibly even hereditary.
Going for what we want in life (like my recent ask for business referrals) can be daunting. That’s why affirmations are so powerful – they’re a form of self-care that refills our tank and helps power us toward our own personal finish lines. Speaking our desires out loud flips a switch in our brains, bringing the impossible into the realm of the possible.
If you’ve never tried it, don’t worry about feeling silly. If you’ve ever grumbled and shouted at the other people in traffic who couldn’t hear you, you’re already in the habit of talking to yourself. Why not redirect that energy into something positive, and start your day with some self-respect?
Today, you may be like Aliya, needing someone to stand behind you and tell you you’re strong, smart, and ready to take on the world. And that’s okay! The longer you allow these affirmations into your life, the sooner you’ll be like her dad – standing behind someone who needs the boost and cheering them along too.
Think positive this year,
~Bob
