I have been resisting the idea of affirmations ever since I first head about them. But recently, I have being doing the gratitude practices from The Alison Show, and the practices inspired me to say things out loud, even when I’m walking through my neighborhood and someone looking out their window might think I’m crazy. I say things like:

• I love my life.
• I love my problems.
• I love my body.
• I love my mind.
• I love my mistakes.

And saying these things out loud really does make a difference. I feel centered and energized.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m a writer, and I believe in the power and magic of writing things down. But I’m also a podcaster and I believe there is a different magic in saying things out loud.

A few days ago, I was writing in my journal and realized I was writing a string of affirmations. I copied the affirmations into a new document and now I have a daily affirmations practice.

Some time during the day, when I am alone and have a few moments to myself, I open the Affirmations document and read every affirmation out loud. No whispering. I speak in a full, confident voice. When I’m done, I feel as if I am extra-alive and ready for whatever challenges life decides to throw at me.

Affirmations are personal, but in case my affirmations inspire you, here there are:

1. I was born to write. I am a writer.
2. I write to be my best self.
3. I love my messy home.
4. I neglect the housework so that I have time to do the things I love.
5. I am thin, healthy and gorgeous.
6. I eat foods that nourish my body.
7. I am a loving flow of energy.
8. I invite abundance and wealth into my life. I welcome abundance.
9. I love my body.
10. I love moving my body.
11. I love my problems and obstacles.
12. I am effervescent, radiant and joyful.
13. I am living my authentic life.
14. I am a successful writer.
15. I am a bad ass at making money.
16. I love my life.
17. I am.
18. I am.
19. I am.
20. I am the consciousness that witnesses my monkey mind.
21. I am on a spiritual journey.
22. I am growing and learning every day.
23. I am glorious.
24. I am a wonderful mother.
25. I am radiant transcendent love.
26. I love my life.
27. I am happy no matter what happens.
28. My life is beautiful.
29. I am so grateful for my children, husband and family.
30. I am so grateful to be living the life I love.
31. I am so grateful for my body.
32. I am so grateful for my soul.
33. I am so grateful for my heart.
34. I love my problems and challenges.
35. i love my life
36. i love myself.
37. i love myself.
38. I love myself!

I’m sure these affirmations will change because hey, I’ve only been doing this for three days and every day, I tweak something a little. It’s a journey. But I’m excited to have another tool to help me feel like my best self.