【INNER】My New Perspective on Self-Affirmation

credit: Big Life Journal

Today, I gained a fresh understanding of "self-affirmation."

At its core, self-affirmation is the act of affirming my worth and values as an individual for positive outcomes. This can be as simple as saying, "I believe in myself," or as profound as declaring, "I matter, and I allow myself to say 'no' to others and 'yes' to myself."

Previously, I viewed self-affirmation primarily as a noun, just a linguistic exercise. I thought it was about using positive words, even while my mindset remained anxious, depressed, or otherwise negative.

However, after reading 《原来懂比爱更重要》 by 丛非从 (page 234), I realised self-affirmation can be understood more holistically as a verb. It goes beyond words and encompasses actions rooted in self-love and self-compassion.

Self-Love vs. Self-Compassion

Self-love involves tangible actions in my daily routine, such as eating well, getting enough sleep, staying active, grooming myself, and keeping my environment tidy. These actions are essential for maintaining my well-being.

Self-compassion, on the other hand, is more abstract. It involves my mindset and thought patterns, focusing on personal growth and self-discovery. It's about understanding who I am and how I want to live my life, especially during challenging times.

The Integration of Self-Love and Self-Compassion

To achieve true self-affirmation, my affirmations should not just be empty words. They must align with my thoughts, emotions, and actions. This means integrating self-love through daily practices and self-compassion by regularly reflecting on my life.

My Formula for Self-Affirmation

After reflecting on this concept, I came up with a formula:

Self-Affirmation = Self-Love + Self-Compassion

Can Self-Affirmation Be a Lifestyle?

I wonder if self-affirmation can be more than just an occasional practice? Could it become a lifestyle? Life is far from perfect; it's full of ups and downs, like a roller coaster. Even amid chaos, self-affirmation can remain a steady background presence. By affirming both my strengths and flaws, I can navigate life with resilience and authenticity.