Positive affirmations are short, encouraging statements expressed in the present tense, that are used to help you think positively. Affirmations fill you with gratitude and help boost your mood. Having a positive mindset leaves you open to allow good things to happen to you. The theory behind using positive affirmations is that by speaking, writing, or thinking positive phrases often, you set an intention and increase the likelihood of positive results.
How Can Affirmations Help Nurses
We all know that being a nurse is super rewarding, but it can be mentally and physically taxing most days. Positive affirmations can create space to pause, take a deep breath, and allow positivity to flow through you.
Having a positive attitude can help to reduce burnout. You can use affirmations to help get ready for a long shift ahead, a mid-shift mood booster, or to wind down at home at the end of your day.
As nurses, we have one of the most stressful jobs. Motivation and inspiration can go a long way to remind us why we do what we do. We must take care of ourselves so that we can take care of others.
Positive affirmations can help nurses:
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Retrain the mind to think positively.
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Reduce stress and anxiety.
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Boost self-esteem and self-worth.
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Build confidence and empowerment.
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Manage fears or doubts.
Ways to use Affirmations
There is no right or wrong way to use positive affirmations. You may want to recite them first thing in the morning to start your day, or repeat them before bed to help you relax. You may choose to speak your affirmations out loud while getting ready for your shift as part of your daily morning routine.
Suggestions for ways to use affirmations are as follows:
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Find a quiet place to focus on your breathing and think positive thoughts.
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Write down positive affirmations every day in a journal.
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Say your chosen affirmations out loud.
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Repeat your affirmations several times and believe them.
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Display affirmations around your home to encourage you.
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Consider printing affirmation cards to hang in the hospital break room.
Examples of Positive Affirmations
You may choose to personalize your own affirmations or use the following list as a source of inspiration or guidance.
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I am meant to be a nurse.
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I make a difference in the lives of others.
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I am compassionate.
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I can handle any patient assignment.
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I will remain calm in any emergency.
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I let go of stress and anxiety.
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I show kindness and empathy to my patients.
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I am knowledgeable.
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I am confident in my nursing abilities.
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I am grateful for the opportunity to care for others.
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I will not judge others.
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I have the resources to make critical decisions.
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I am an important part of my patients' healing process.
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I will remember to care for myself, too.
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I inspire others to be their best self.
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I learn and grow from every experience.
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I will provide comfort to those who need it.
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I am energized for the day ahead of me.
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I will not allow negative feelings to overwhelm me.
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I am doing my best.
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I will listen to my patient’s needs.
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Caring for others comes easily to me.
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I will let go of what I cannot control.
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I work well under pressure.
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I am thankful for the opportunity to help those in need.
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Everything will be okay.
Nurses dedicate their lives to helping others, and usually forget about caring for themselves in the process. The physical and emotional aspects of nursing can take a toll on your mind, body, and soul. Remember to stop and take a deep breath and use affirmations to help you remain positive.
References
Positive Daily Affirmations. Is There Science Behind it? Catherine Moore, Psychologist, MBA. https://positivepsychology.com/https://positivepsychology.com/daily-affirmations/daily-affirmations/
N., Sam M.S., "AFFIRMATION," in PsychologyDictionary.org, April 7, 2013, https://psychologydictionary.org/affirmation/ (accessed December 29, 2021)
Author Bio:
Lauren Rivera, RNINC is a nationally certified neonatal intensive care nurse with over 15 years of experience. She serves as a nurse expert offering support and educational classes for women and their families from preconception through childhood. Lauren is also a freelance writer with works published on several nursing sites. She develops and curates content for various health care companies, and writes continuing education modules for other healthcare professionals. Lauren loves taking her children on adventures and exploring new places.
