Call it auto-suggestion, self-help, self-awareness or whatever, affirmations can help program you into healthier habits. In this case, a stronger, slimmer physique. But, there is more to affirmations than just writing down what you want over and over again. That is just the old Go Team Go blind-faith approach. Affirmations are not meant to disillusion you. Or lie to yourself. Rather it is a way of becoming honest with yourself and find out what is holding you back.

So, Let us begin.

First, get a piece of paper. Divide the page into 2 columns. One column will take up one third of the page and another column on 2/3rds of the page. On the left hand side, one-third column write a statement that could be true. Something like " I am strong and fit" or I like my slim body" Immediately, without thinking much about it, immediately write your first response in the wide 2/3 column to the right. Do this in the first, second and third person 5 times each. Your responses might surprise, even sadden, anger or enlighten you.

Here is what it would look like:

Affirmation & Response

I, _____ am strong and fit What?

I, _____ am strong and fit Says who?

I, _____ am strong and fit That's bull...

I _____ am strong and fit Well.

(2nd person)

You, _____ are strong and fit Nah.

You, _____ are strong and fit Fit as what?

Etc.

_____ is strong and fit Well, no, otherwise I would have gotten picked for Rugby in high school.

So, now I have a starting point. Some hidden barrier has revealed itself. Instead of trying to chant or promote an untruth, I find a statement closer to the truth.

I, _____ am getting fitter No you can't. You're too weak, sick, ....

You, _____ are getting fitter Well, last week you ran 10 laps, then went to work.

You, (your name) are getting fitter I am not perfect, but I have been working out every Second day. I noticed that when I ran up the stairs I was out of breath.

(Your name) is getting fitter. Last week I was feeling more energetic.

Try these affirmations:

I like myself and my body just the way it is.

I look after myself.

I do the right thing for my fitness and health

My parents want me to succeed

(Note: Anything about your parents or family will probably "pen a can of worms." Be brave, push forward and finally get it out in the open)

That is the trick to affirmations. You have to dig up a truth that works and affirm it. Deep down, you really know the truth. Once you touch on it, your progress becomes faster. This method has helped me overcome barriers in fitness, studying and even writing that were subconsciously holding me back. I hope that it helps you.

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