If you really stop to listen to yourself—that inner self talk that is often running through your mind—what do you hear? Is it friendly? Is it positive? Is it motivating? Or, do you more often find yourself picking on every little detail, or beating yourself up about what you didn’t do? If it’s the latter, you’re not alone. It’s easy to fall into a well of negativity, but if you take the time to flip your thoughts and speak to yourself as you would a friend or loved one, you might just find a change in more than just your self talk. We’re willing to bet that you’ll stand a little taller, walk a little farther, and smile a little brighter.
So how do you flip the script? One way is through affirmations. Short, powerful statements that hush your negative self talk, tap into your conscious and unconscious mind to motivate yourself to push and reach your full potential. It’s a tool that you own, and that, if used regularly, will show up as that coach to encourage you, boost your self esteem, and motivate you to take action and realize your goals.
Affirmations are something you repeat. It could be on a daily basis or in certain situations. And since we’re all about walking, we’ve put together 9 affirmations that you can say before, during and after your walk. Pick your favorite, add your own, or say them all.
Worth the Hype
Before you start your walk, here are three of our favorite affirmations to fire you up to lace up your shoes, head out the door and get moving.
I know that when I’m done, I’ll be so glad that I started.
I am worth the energy that I dedicate to myself.
My body is capable of more than I can even imagine.
Made to Move
During your walk, focus on shorter and snappier affirmations. You’ll want them to be direct and to-the-point, like your own internal coach pushing you through. Some ideas are:
I’ve got this.
“I am” statements: I am worth it. I am strong. I am worthy. I am powerful.
“I can” statements: I can do hard things. I can succeed. Yes, I can.
It’s Been an Honor
After the work is done, take the time to continue to be your cheerleader, and hype yourself up, giving yourself credit for what you just accomplished. You might like:
Every day, I get stronger.
I am so grateful that I showed up for myself today.
I did enough.
These are three ways to lean into affirmations. Three opportunities to be your biggest cheerleader and honor yourself, and your body—what it can do, and what it accomplishes. Find what works best for you and put it on repeat. You are worth it!
My Top 3 Walking Affirmations
Download the 99 Walks Walking Affirmations worksheet to keep your favorite affirmations close at hand.
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