Glossary

Writing affirmations is a great way to promote a positive mindset which is important for our overall wellbeing. Now we have supported each other in recognising our strengths, let’s work together to create affirmations that are meaningful for women and gender diverse people with disabilities.

Affirmations should challenge negative thoughts and be positive and empowering. For example:

‘I am capable of achieving success because …’

‘I am strong and resilient in the face of difficulties.’

‘The world is lucky to have me because …’

‘I deserve love, respect and acceptance just as I am.’

‘I am fabulous just the way I am because …’

‘Looking after me is important. It is my first priority.’

These are the starting points for the affirmations, but it is even more meaningful if you make them specific to you, such as:

“I can achieve success because I have succeeded in so many areas of my life so far, such as learning to drive, supporting my friends and family, completing a qualification, sticking to my self-care plan…”

“The world is lucky to have me because I am a friend who people feel safe to turn to in difficult times, and to celebrate achievements with, laugh with and rest with.”

When you make affirmations specific to you, using real life examples, you will know that they are true.

If you are doing this activity in a group, have a discussion with your group about unhelpful thoughts you could challenge and helpful thoughts you could reinforce. Create affirmations for each thought. Create as many affirmations as you like. Write your affirmations on paper or get creative and design posters for each affirmation.

By the end of the activity, everyone should have multiple affirmations written on their paper or affirmation posters to keep. Look at them daily to remind yourself of just how great you are!

You will find some other great examples of affirmations at the link here.