5 Steps to Transform Affirmations into Something Better

Last week, I shared how affirmations don't work for me.  How my initial enthusiasm wains as the promised results don't materialize.  How affirmations can, over time, put me onto my Wheel of Fear and cause me to beat myself up.

This week, I'd like to share an alternative to affirmations.  A few easy steps that are based in Freedom.  That will serve to move me (and you!) forward through empowerment.  Ready?  Here's the formula:

1. Select one thing you wish to work on.  

Your one thing can be a stretch, a risk, or a die.  An action.  An awareness.  A change in attitude.  It's up to you.

     2. Set (an) intention(s)

What are you willing to practice doing to work toward your one thing?  One intention will get you focused, three will propel you forward, and five will set you on fire.  Write it down thus: "I am willing (or willing to practice)..."

    3. Acknowledge yourself every day

Did you take action on your intention?  Great!  Acknowledge yourself for that.  Maybe you didn't take action, yet you thought about it.  Great!  That's worthy of acknowledgement too :). If your intention slipped your mind, acknowledge yourself for your willingness to try again.  You've got this!

    4. Be grateful 

Note how the universe is supporting you.  What happened today that supported your intention?  Was the weather in your favor?  How about the traffic lights....even once?  Did you receive a compliment?  A pleasant surprise?  How did external forces support you in even the tiniest way?

   5. Repeat

If you get stuck, ask yourself what your Essential Nature would do.  If you notice Fear creeping in, use a proactive behavior to move onto your wheel of freedom.  What might you do to feel empowered in this moment?

There you have it.  You've successfully created a cycle of empowerment.  You've given yourself permission to do what you choose to move toward your desired end.  You've moved way from affirmations that rely on external forces to intentions that put you in charge. You've empowered yourself,many given yourself permission to keep practicing.  You're back in the drivers seat, with permission to take all the time you need.   Cool, huh?  

Question. What affirmation will you turn into an intention today?