Happy New Year!

With the arrival of the new year and a clean slate, you’re probably setting goals and resolutions for 2018. Some of those resolutions probably revolve around your writing life, whether it’s blogging, networking, finishing your novel, or some other creative project. I know mine do!

But, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by your lofty aspirations.

And in a field full of rejections, competition, and complete subjectivity, it’s easy to fall victim to negative self-talk and the naysayers. Hitting your creative goals in 2018 requires hard work and dedication, but some positive self-talk along the way might be the key to your success.

What is an Affirmation?

An affirmation is a positive phrase written in first person present tense that states a goal, truth, or resolution.

The theory behind affirmations, and why this form of self-talk is becoming popular, is that if you repeat this positive idea to yourself often, you’ll impress it into your conscious mind and alter your thinking patterns.

It might sound a little hippie or New Age for you; I get it! When I first learned about affirmations, I thought it was goofy. But, the more I researched it, the more I opened up to the power of positive self-talk as a tool against doubt and fear.

Don’t write this strategy off just yet.

Battling Negativity with Affirmations

While affirmations can help you program your mind to believe your positive affirmations, it’s important to know what you need to battle.

What are the most common negative thoughts you have about your writing? What are your greatest fears about writing, publishing, and rejection? Make a list of these fears and negative thoughts, and then develop personalized positive affirmations that directly contrast those fears.

I’ve written down my writing affirmations in my journal, and I’ve started a new Pinterest board for writing affirmations. Keep your affirmations someplace you’ll see them often, and someplace that’s easy to access when you’re struggling with negative thoughts. You can even purchase affirmation cards for writers.

If you’re interested in reading more about affirmations and how to make affirmations work for you, check out this helpful article on Psychology Today.

Affirmations for Writers

Your affirmations can be whatever you want. Below are a handful of positive affirmations to get you started.

“I am a damn good writer.”

“The quality of my writing is improving every day.”

“I find a little time for my writing, even on busy days.”

“I have a fantastic imagination.”

“I will write my story.”

“I am full of good ideas.”

“I will do the best I can.”

“Writing makes me happy.”

“I am creative.”

Be Consistent and Patient

Everyone, writers and otherwise, struggle with fears and negative thoughts. Affirmations are helpful, but don’t expect them to work miracles immediately. Embracing positive thought patterns and letting go of fear takes hard work, mindfulness, and consistency. But, with time and patience, you’ll be on your way to beating your negative thoughts and fears.

Have questions, comments, or concerns? Email me or join the Between the Lines Writer’s Nook on Facebook!