Affirmations are powerful tools that many people use to positively shape and influence their lives. These positive statements or phrases are designed to help people to overcome challenges, boost their self-confidence and, above all, manifest their desires. By repeating affirmations regularly, individuals hope to harness the Law of Attraction and create the reality they desire.
However, while the concept of positive affirmations is well known and widely embraced, we often overlook the negative affirmations we unconsciously use. These damaging statements can significantly impact our lives, often in ways we don't even realise. In this blog we will explore five common yet damaging affirmations that many people inadvertently employ.
1) "I can't afford it"
One of the most common - and most damaging - affirmations is the belief that we can't afford something. Now you may think this is true - but is it? Or do you simply have other priorities? Even if those priorities are paying your bills/rent/mortgage and putting food on the table, usually that is all that we mean when we say "I can't afford it". However, the damage is being done when we affirm and then reaffirm to the universe that we can't afford something, as the Law of Attraction simply gives us more of the same. Not only that, but when we constantly tell ourselves "I can't afford it", we create a scarcity mindset. By feeling this sense of lack, it lowers our vibration and shrinks our energetic field. This negative affirmation then becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy as it prevents us from seeking opportunities, investing in ourselves or exploring potential financial solutions. It's also impossible to manifest from a place of lack - so you will become trapped in your own sense of lack.
2) Negative language about money
Using words with negative connotations like "debt" "spend" or "bills" can reinforce negative beliefs about money. These words carry a heavy energetic charge that can attract financial difficulties into our lives. Focus on how you feel when you state the word "spend" - does it conjure up an image of loss? If I "spend" money on something, it feels like I'm losing something, even if I am gaining the thing I've purchased. Rather than use this lack-infused word, try using positive phrases like "invest" which has a lighter, more beneficial and positive energy attached to it. You can also substitute energetically heavy words for phrases like "financial freedom" and "abundance".
3) Song lyrics with negative affirmations
Many of us enjoy singing along to our favorite songs, but have you ever paid attention to the lyrics? Some songs contain negative affirmations that we unwittingly reinforce when we sing them aloud. This is something I've been acutely aware of since childhood, and even as a young girl I would avoid singing anything that had a negative meaning, in case it came true! But far from being superstitious, I was aware of the messages I was sending to the universe through song lyrics. Any words you use either in your head or out loud can impact your thoughts and beliefs.
4) "I'm not good enough"
A hugely common and damaging affirmation that affects self-esteem is the belief that we're not good enough. When we repeatedly tell ourselves we're inadequate, we limit our potential and hinder personal growth. Replace this affirmation with positive self-talk that promotes self-worth and confidence. If you feel you're not good enough at something, because you are striving to become better at it, try using "I'm excited to learn this new skill and develop it further".
5) "I'll never find love"
Negative affirmations related to love and relationships can be particularly harmful. Believing that you'll never find love or that you're unworthy of love can create a self-fulfilling prophecy. Instead, focus on affirmations that invite love and positive relationships into your life.
In summary, while positive affirmations can be transformative it's equally important to recognise and eliminate damaging affirmations from our lives. By being mindful of the words we use and the beliefs we reinforce, we can shift our mindset and pave the way for a brighter future. Remember, the power of affirmations lies in their ability to shape our reality so choose them wisely! If you'd like to learn more about affirmations, transforming your words and your thoughts, you might like my free workshop "Words have Power: Transforming your Thoughts".