Do Positive Affirmations Really Work?
Quite simply, yes, according to an article on positive psychology: “One of the key psychological theories behind positive affirmations is self-affirmation theory (Steele, 1988). So, yes, there are empirical studies based on the idea that we can maintain our sense of self-integrity by telling ourselves (or affirming) what we believe in positive ways.” (Positive Psychology)
Positive thinking and positive affirmations are not something new. In 1952 Norman Vincent Peale published his book, “The Power of Positive Thinking” which touted the same principles that seem to becoming popular again today. At the time of publication, Peale’s book took some criticism because of his lack of sources to back up his claims. But 71 years later, his claims seem to be correct – positive thinking is powerful.
Why Does a Failure Stick in Our Heads?
Do our minds get stuck in the negatives? In the above TedTalk psychologist Alison Ledgerwood talks about switching the way we think about things – both positively and negatively. According to the video, Ledgerwood discusses studies that show that when something is shown in a positive light, then people like it, but when the information is reframed negatively, then that information is no longer liked – and that negativity sticks. It is called a “Loss Frame”. Once the negative data is known, people can’t stop thinking about it.
What is significant about this TedTalk and the research that Ledgerwood discusses, is that there is proof that thinking about things in a positive way takes work, but can result in a dramatic boost in “your happiness, your wellbeing and even your health.”
What Happened Today that was Good?
By taking a moment to focus on the upside, to ask the question, “What happened today that was good?” We can change the way we feel about our day.
Speak Positively to Your Students
Your students need to hear positive affirmations and learn at a young age to start positive self-talk. There is scientific evidence that positive affirmations help students improve their grades and self-worth. Here are 10 positive affirmations that you can teach your students:
- There is no one better to be than myself.
- I am enough.
- I get better every single day.
- I am an amazing person.
- All of my problems have solutions.
- Today I am a leader.
- I forgive myself for my mistakes.
- My challenges help me grow.
- I am perfect just the way I am.
- My mistakes help me learn and grow.
These ten affirmations came from thepathway2success.com, check them out for 101 positive affirmations!
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If you are passionate about impacting the world around you there are few places where you can influence the future as much as a teacher. Teachers have the ability to build students up and set them on a positive course that can have a ripple effect for future generations.
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