Affirmations
wisdomEvery day I write out four affirmations. They’re short reminders of who I want to be, and writing them out is how I push back on my self-sabotaging thoughts before the day gets going. Mine have evolved over years, so treat them as examples and find the ones that speak to you.
My four affirmations
Do It Anyways: Deliberate. Disciplined. Daily
Discipline is being proactive, and when I lose it, I don’t feel bad, I just restart the next day. (Be proactive)
An essentialist: Know Essential. Provide Context. Prioritize Ruthlessly.
There are so many choices that I need to find the essential, tell the story that makes it clear to others, and cut the rest. (Essentialism)
A class act: First Understand. Appreciate. Isn’t that Curious
People want to do their best, so I seek first to understand, appreciate generously, and meet my own triggers with curiosity instead of judgment. (Class act)
Calm like water: Be Present. This too shall pass. Work the problem
Every day can be full of joy, but if I’m not paying attention I’ll miss it, and since the good and the bad are both temporary, I work the problem in front of me. (Joy)
How to use them
- Write them out. By hand, at the same time every day. Thinking about them while brushing your teeth doesn’t count.
- Plan how you’ll apply them today. For example: “I’ll prioritize ruthlessly by saying no to that optional meeting.”
- Review yesterday. Did you live them? Celebrate where you did. Where you didn’t, that’s data, not a character flaw: adjust and try again tomorrow.
My full working notes, with history and every source, are at Affirmations: Igor-only.