January 22

“Don’t waste yourself in rejection, nor bark against the bad, but chant the beauty of good.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Even in my recovery I can spend too much time in my negativity. Not only for what I have done or what I am not doing, but also just for always seeing the bad side of life’s events. I am coming to realize that focusing on the negative aspects and brooding over the problem does little to make me feel better or move me towards a solution. It is some mental reprogramming that I need to put in place to erase all the pessimism that ruled my former thinking. The tool of affirmations is helping me to move in a better direction and to see things in a more positive light. It is a learning process that does not come naturally for me. It takes a conscious effort to build this into my program of recovery, including reciting them in front of the mirror. It is a recurring theme in my step work as well. The flip side of all that negativity is gratitude. This is another place I need to work at and find and count my blessings. In my daily prayer I make an effort to list 3-5 things that I am thankful for, no matter how big or small. It is all part of improving my attitude and outlook on life.

Affirmation I can learn to look on the bright side of life and let go of darkness that used to predominate. There is a gift to be found in every situation.

May 26

”To think bad thoughts is really the easiest thing in the world. If you leave your mind to itself it will spiral into ever increasing unhappiness. To think good thoughts, however, requires effort. This is one of the things that discipline – training – is about.” James Clavell

Affirmations are a powerful tool in recovery. My natural tendency has been to focus on all that is wrong with me – that I am not good enough or attractive enough or whatever and to constantly put myself down. This kind of thinking fueled my addiction and helped me to justify my actions. I no longer want to be that negative person and I am continuously finding reasons to believe in myself. Old habits are hard to overcome, so practicing affirmations has helped me to change the way I think about and view myself. It was awkward at first, standing in front of the mirror and telling myself things like “I am worthwhile” or “I am loved because I deserve love.” Yet with practice and persistence (and a little “fake it til you make it”),  I gradually came to believe the words and to discover the worth within me which had always been there. Life still doesn’t always go the way I want or expect. I am aware that many things are not in my control but I can let them go. Some things are just not meant to be. I know deep within that I have value, that I am lovable, and that is all I need.

Affirmation Today I will practice affirmations to strengthen my sense of value and worth. It may seem foolish but it works.