I am in love with words. I always have been. I read something that relates to how I'm feeling and I feel less alone. I come across a quote that inspires me and it lights a fire under me and I want to share it with others to do the same. I love how reading something makes me feel connected to the person who wrote it. I'm not upbeat and positive all the time — believe me — but sometimes words inspire me to change my perspective and realize things aren't as bad as I believe them to be. In my opinion, that's pretty powerful.
I'm gearing up for the new year like everyone else, armed with resolutions and full of excitement for a new beginning. There's something special about starting off a new year with a clean slate, like the excitement of opening to the first page of a brand new notebook (is that only me?).
In years past, I've made resolutions and forgotten about them before the end of January. I want this year to be different. I think 2021 has great things on the horizon, because let'e be honest, we need something good to follow after the craziness of 2020, but I am fully aware that I have to actively seek those great things out. I realize that in order to have the greatest year yet, I need to do my part in the process.
This year I have created 8 affirmations that I'm going to use throughout 2021 to keep me on track, to inspire me, and to remind me that I have to take responsibility for my own happiness in the year to come. And I wanted to share them in case they inspire someone else to do the same.
1.) The key to my happiness is within. I have the power within me to guide my life in the direction I want. I MUST be the driving force behind my happiness, because no one else can or will.
2.) I will be the happiest version of myself this year. I will make an effort to change the aspects of my life that bring negative thoughts and energy. I will take control of my future and I will start now.
3.) I will be the healthiest version of myself this year. I will treat my body as the temple it is, and learn to love my body. I will workout because I love my body, not because I hate it. I will learn to have a positive relationship with food, and eat what nurtures my body because I deserve it.
4.) I will set goals for myself and achieve them. I will strive for greatness, EACH AND EVERY DAY, because I know in my heart I am destined for it.
5.) I will release all negative thoughts, and approach opportunities with a positive mindset. I will approach each day as a gift, because that is what it is. I will appreciate each moment, and respect all things that bring me happiness.
6.) I will be the best version of me, not only for myself, but so that I can help others to the best of my ability. I will learn to serve myself and serve others, and respect a healthy balance of both.
7.) I will love more and be open to receiving love. I have learned that I am capable of being in love, and I am capable of being loved. I deserve love from others, and will accept it as a gift without skepticism.
8.) I will focus on my faith and let it guide me toward the best version of myself. I will pray each day to find purpose, focus and direction for my life.