I Think, Therefore I Can - Affirmations for Entrepreneurial Success

When I first heard the concept of affirmations, I thought, “Yeah, right.” Saying an affirmation aloud was calling black “white.” I felt like an ostrich with my head in the sand. How can saying something that is blatantly false make it so? For the record, an affirmation is a first-person, present-tense statement designed to shift a habit of thought. Affirmations, I thought, were an invitation to la-la land. On the other hand, the old way wasn’t serving me well. What did I have to lose? Maybe a trip to la-la land was in order. I gave it a try, and I learned a few things along the way. Here’s my take, for what it’s worth. THE ART Critical elements of successful affirmations include identification of current habitual thoughts or beliefs that you want to change, and formulation of a counter statement that is workable or realistic. Step 1. Acknowledge prior assumptions. Some common beliefs of small business owners include: “Owning my own business is exhausting” or “Business takes away from family time.” Step 2. Create a counter statement that you would like to be true. For instance: “Owning my own business is energizing” or “I enjoy delightful balance between my business and personal life.” THE SCIENCE Science is about measurement of results and depends heavily on the yardstick against which you measure. Crafting a statement that is so far beyond what you hold as “realistic” will only dig you into a deeper funk about your current situation. Step 1. Break it down. Getting to New York from L.A. is achievable, but one does well to anticipate (and appreciate) the stopover in Chicago. Craft your affirmation so that Chicago is part of the plan, and you’ll feel greater satisfaction and success along the way. Step 2. Find value in each leg of the trip. Recognition and acknowledgment of progress enhance the experience. Where you focus attention determines how much you enjoy the ride. Bask a little in the interesting and beautiful Chicago moments before barreling ahead to the final destination. For someone whose business causes financial anxiety and loss of sleep, a statement like, “My business brings ecstasy and joy” is too much of a stretch. An easier thought is, “I’m open to creative, lucrative solutions.” WHAT AFFIRMATIONS ARE RIGHT FOR ME? Once you’ve crafted your statements, print them out and put them where you can see them. Read them, think them, repeat them out loud. Imagine the feeling inherent in the fruition of the statement. Notice what happens – in your body, in your mind, and in your environment. What relaxes? What opportunities appear? What circumstances change? If your affirmations evoke even a bit of relief, you’re on the right track. If they give you a headache or make you irritated, revise them. Make them more real for you. You’re in charge! GRATITUDE PROPELS Honest appreciation for any aspect of the current situation elevates the level of satisfaction. Acknowledgment of what is good and enjoyable attracts more of the same. Identify one positive, successful element of your business for which you are thankful. Maybe it’s your level of skill, your one terrific, satisfied client, or your partnership with a wise mentor. Express thanks often: offer a smile, say thank you, send a card, keep a journal. Gratitude perpetuates the process of joy, productivity and success. Be easy with it, and have fun in the process! 10 SAMPLE AFFIRMATIONS FOR THE WORRIED ENTREPRENEUR 1.    I am a magnet for ideal clients. 2.    I speak with ease and confidence. 3.    I thrive on productivity. 4.    I am open to new learning. 5.    I act with focus and purpose. 6.    I love what I do. 7.    All my business relationships are harmonious and fun. 8.    My lifework is fulfilling and lucrative. 9.    I am an expert in my field. 10.  I’m a creative problem solver. 2008-07-24T23:34:51Z

2008-07-26T15:24:51Z

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2008-07-26T15:24:46Z

Can positive thinking really help grow your business? Read on to demystify the affirmation process and create your own powerful business boost.

I Think, Therefore I Can - Affirmations for Entrepreneurial Success

2009-02-24T09:45:16Z