How I Started Using Affirmations (And How You Can Too)
Let’s be honest: life gets loud.
Between school, work, responsibilities, and self-doubt whispering in your ear, it’s easy to forget your own worth. That’s where affirmations come in—and yes, they really do make a difference.
Today, I want to break down what affirmations are, why they work, and how you can use them daily to shift your mindset and feel more grounded, confident, and motivated. (Spoiler: I even laminated mine—I'll show you how.)
What Are Affirmations?
Affirmations are short, positive statements that help you focus on your strengths and what’s possible—instead of what’s missing or wrong. They sound simple, but they’re powerful because your brain believes what it hears on repeat.
Here are a few examples:
- I am enough just as I am.
- I can handle whatever comes today.
- I am growing, even when it feels slow.
Think of them as little mindset nudges—like your future self giving you a pep talk.
Why Use Them?
Okay, so why bother saying affirmations out loud?
Because you already talk to yourself every day. The problem is, most of us do it with criticism, doubt, or fear. Affirmations flip that script.
Here’s what I noticed after just a few weeks:
- I started catching negative thoughts quicker.
- I felt calmer in moments of anxiety.
- I was kinder to myself during mistakes.
- I showed up more confidently in my day.
The science backs it up too—repeating positive statements can literally rewire your brain over time. (Yep, this is mindset training.)
How to Actually Use Affirmations (and Make It Stick)
This is where most people give up. They love the idea of affirmations, but don’t turn them into a habit.
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Here’s what’s been working for me:
1. Pick 1–3 affirmations to focus on
Choose ones that feel personal and believable to you. You can change them weekly or as needed.
2. Say them out loud—yes, really
In front of the mirror, while brushing your teeth, or even in the car. You feel it more when you hear your own voice.
3. Write them down
On sticky notes, in your planner, or inside your journal. Writing helps lock it in.
4. Make a card to carry with you
This one changed everything for me. I created small affirmation cards and laminated them so they’d last. I keep one in my wallet, one by my bed, and one on my desk.
🛠 Want to try this? I used this laminator and these self-seal pouches. (Affiliate links—I only recommend what I actually use!)
5. Set a daily reminder
Put a sticky note on your mirror or set a phone alarm that says, “Repeat your affirmation.” Make it part of your routine—like brushing your teeth or drinking water.
✨ Real Talk: Do Affirmations Really Work?
Not instantly. But consistently? Yes.
Affirmations are like watering a plant—you don’t see it grow overnight, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t working.
The more you repeat something kind and true, the more your brain starts to believe it. And when your mind believes it? Your actions follow.
So even on the hard days, I keep going.
Even when it feels cheesy, I keep saying them.
Because the voice you hear the most... should be on your side.
💌 Want Affirmations Ready to Go?
If you're not sure where to start, I’ve created a printable set of 30 Daily Affirmations for Teens (but really, they work for adults too). You can download it, print it, and even laminate your favorites like I did.
👉 My favorite laminating tool, along with essential items for school and home offices, is right here.
If you try affirmations for a week, I’d love to hear how it goes. Leave a comment or tag me @fiftyandflourishing on Pinterest or Instagram.
Remember: you are worthy, you are capable, and you are becoming something beautiful.
You've got this. 💛
✂️ How I Laminated My Affirmation Cards (And How You Can Too)
Once I printed my affirmations, I wanted to make them feel a little more special—something I could carry, hang, or gift. So I laminated them!
Here’s how you can do the same:
🛠️ What You’ll Need:
- Your printable affirmation cards
- A printer and scissors
- A laminator (or self-sealing pouches)
- A corner rounder (optional, but I highly recommend it!)
.📋 Step-by-Step:
1. Download your affirmation printable.
2. Print the pages on regular or cardstock paper.
3. Cut out each card neatly along the lines.
4. Laminate the cards using your preferred method:
👉 I use this laminator – it’s compact and easy to use.
👉 Or try these self-sealing pouches – no machine needed!
5. Round the corners for a smooth, finished look and safer edges.
👉 I love using this corner rounder tool.
✨ Why bother laminating?
Because they feel more durable, gift-worthy, and ready for daily use—whether you're keeping them in your journal, purse, or on the bathroom mirror.
🧡 Want to try it?
You can download the full 30 Daily Affirmations for Teens printable here:
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