“Believe you can, and you’re halfway there.” ~ Theodore Roosevelt.
In a brief moment, your emotions shifted a bit when you read that quote. Maybe it doesn’t resonate with you…but if it does, how do you feel? Thoughtful? Curious? Relieved?
Positive Results
Not everyone uses quotes and affirmations to affect change in their lives. Nevertheless, there’s ample research to suggest that uplifting quotes and affirmations help stop negative self-talk, calm anxiety, boost confidence, and relieve stress, among other aspects.
Mindtools provides techniques to help people improve their careers through personal effectiveness. Many methods apply to individuals not only for their professional development, but also to help hone their skills for understanding motivation, perceptions, and growth—often vital components of a fulfilling life.
The site points to some research regarding the power of positive reinforcement:
- Self-affirmation helps people improve problem-solving skills, even while they’re stressed.
- Paired with cognitive behavioral therapy, researchers helped young women reduce levels of depression and negative thinking through techniques such as “thought stopping and affirmations.”
- This study details how self-affirmation helps improve an individual’s perspective on self-worth and competence, among other factors.
One Mindtools article does caution that for people with low self-esteem—often a product of emotions such as guilt or shame— inspirational affirmations and quotes might “make you feel worse, because they set up a conflict between the positive state you desire and the negative feelings you currently experience.” It suggests working with a therapist to examine the origin of your self-esteem issues, and work on developing a healthier attitude about who you are and the value of your contributions.
Then, you’ll continue to find numerous quotes and affirmations that reinforce your innate goodness, as well as your purpose, goals, aspirations, and gratitude. Here are just a few you might want to slip into a book, post on the ‘fridge, or add to your journal.
Examples of Powerful Affirmations
People from all walks of life can add to our motivation through not only their words, but also their actions.
Jimmy Carter
Take for example Jimmy Carter—a Plains, Georgia native and the 39th President of the United States. Well into his 90s at the time of this writing, he demonstrates incredible grace, strength, and humanity. His dedication to public service extends well past the White House, but he stays humble and focused, helping people throughout the world. As he says, “We should live our lives as though Christ were coming this afternoon.”
For anyone evaluating the benefits of giving back during recovery, Carter has some thoughts for you:
- “To deal with individual human needs at the everyday level can be noble sometimes.” This is an example of his work with many organizations, including Habitat for Humanity.
- “The awareness that health is dependent upon habits we control makes us the first generation in history that, to a large extent, determines its own destiny.” Maybe you’d like to give back by helping veterans with substance abuse issues at your local VA hospital.
And finally, if you’re ever in doubt about your decision to stay sober, Carter offers this: “We cannot ignore our gift of the future.”
Oprah Winfrey
Another individual who people consider incredibly motivational is Oprah Winfrey. Even without her daily television show, her multimedia empire built on a foundation of Southern strength and unrelenting resilience continues to inspire millions. Bounced between various relatives, poor, sexually abused, and challenged with a teenage pregnancy and the loss of that child, Oprah believes you should “turn your wounds into wisdom.” She’s demonstrated this repeatedly for more than 30 years in the public eye, with all her trials and successes on display.
Through a variety of venues, such as SuperSoul Sunday and O, The Oprah Magazine, she wants to be a guiding light for people to live their best lives.
“The great courageous act that we all must do, is to have the courage to step out of our history and past so that we can live our dreams.” Having a solid support system is one way to continue to move forward with like-minded individuals who keep you focused and clear about your goals.
“Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure.” To help you understand a singular moment and how to be present, try loving-kindness meditation.
She also understands the importance of staying focused on each day as it comes, especially when choosing to live healthfully. “Opportunity may knock only once, but temptation leans on the door bell,” she reminds us.
Websites With More Uplifting Affirmations and Quotes
Bookmark the following sites or, if they have social media pages, set your preferences so you receive frequent notifications to boost your spirits and add to your resolve. You’ll find affirmations, techniques, quotes, and other methods instrumental for making positive change and setting a course that matters to you.
- Abraham-Hicks
- BeliefNet
- Brendon Burchard
- Coach John Wooden
- Eric Thomas
- Heal Your Life
- Mel Robbins
- Possibility of Change
- Storytellers for Good
- Soul Pancake
- Uplift Connect
- Valerie Burton
Willingway Aspires to Meet Your Care Needs
If you choose our inpatient rehabilitation facility in Statesboro, GA, to support your wellness, trust that our dedicated and expert staff members will do whatever we can to reinforce your worth and the purpose of your journey. Our mission and values guide us to provide the care you deserve to live an enriching, inspiring life.
