Sometimes we need a little boost of confidence. One way to do this is through positive affirmations. Affirmations are short, positive statements that we say aloud or in our heads. It’s a way to show kindness and self-love to ourselves and can be useful in helping us navigate a challenge or big emotions. And the science agrees!

One of the leading theories behind positive affirmations is the self-affirmation theory developed by psychologist, Claude Steele. This theory suggests that individuals are motivated to maintain a positive self-view, and threats to self-view can be restored by self-affirmations that help them to reflect on sources of their self-worth [i]. Research suggests that positive affirmations can lead to:

• reduced stress

• improved health behaviors and decision-making

• improved confidence

• strengthened resilience

• and more [ii]

How do they do this? Well, positive affirmations lead to these outcomes through a thing called neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is our nervous system’s ability to change its activity or how it works [iii]. In other words, it is the rewiring of the brain - helping you turn negative thought patterns into positive ones.

Positive affirmations can be repeated aloud or in your head - when you’re brushing your teeth, in the car, before bed, or when you need a little pick me up to help you face a challenge. Check out and download this list of 28 Affirmations for Self-Love! Put it somewhere you can reflect on it whenever you need it. Keep growing the list and add your own!