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.