40 positive affirmations for daily self-care

by Kaiser Permanente |
happy person with closed eyes thinks positive thoughts

There’s some truth to the saying “you are what you think.” Negative thinking can give you a more negative outlook on life. And that negative outlook can lead to even more negative thoughts. This cycle of negativity often results in feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.

To break the cycle, it’s important to reframe your thinking to focus on possibilities and potential. Daily affirmations can shift your internal dialogue and help keep negative thoughts at bay.  

What is an affirmation?

The word “affirm” means to validate or confirm. Affirmations, also called positive affirmations, are short, encouraging statements that you can use to create a more positive frame of mind. 

You can repeat an affirmation to yourself as often as you’d like — while brushing your teeth, driving to work, or before you fall asleep. The more often you use an affirmation, the more it can help reinforce your sense of value and self-worth.

How to start and stick with a daily affirmation practice 

It may take a little time and practice to make affirmation a part of your daily routine. Here’s how to get started. 

Choose an affirmation

You can write your own or pick an affirmation from the list below.  Make sure to choose one that connects with and motivates you. You want to find an affirmation that you can easily repeat a few times. It should also feel authentic to you. 

Pick a time of day

To start your day on a positive note, you may decide to do a morning affirmation. Or you may prefer to say your affirmation at night. That could help you reduce anxiety, relax, or end the day more positively. You can also use an affirmation anytime throughout the day to help you stay calm or give yourself a confidence boost. 

Plan how to use it

Do you want to say your positive affirmation out loud? Or do you prefer to say it in your head? You may want to say the affirmation in front of the mirror or sit in a quiet place with your eyes closed. What matters is that you say it in a way that feels true to you.  

Make affirmations a daily habit

The key to making affirmations a regular habit is to do them every day. You can set a notification or alarm on your phone to remind you. The more you practice affirmations, the easier it will be to include them in your daily life. 

Daily affirmations to try today

Try using one of these affirmations throughout your day. By the end of the day, you may notice that you’re feeling more positive and motivated.

  1. I am ready.
  2. My efforts help me succeed.
  3. I can make a real difference.
  4. My hard work will pay off.
  5. I am strong.
  6. I have the power to make the right choices for me.
  7. I have faith in my abilities.
  8. I got this.
  9. I am grateful for what I can do.
  10. I am happy to be me.
  11. My goals are achievable.
  12. I am confident.
  13. I will be kind to myself today.
  14. I am on the right path for me.
  15. I deserve love in my life.
  16. I will take action to accomplish my goals.
  17. I will celebrate the progress I’m making to reach my goals
  18. I will look for the good in things.
  19. I am always learning.
  20. I trust myself.
  21. I will try new things.
  22. I will turn negative thoughts into positive ones.
  23. I will accept myself as I am.
  24. I love myself.
  25. I will make time for what brings me joy. 
  26. I am powerful.
  27. I believe in myself.
  28. It’s OK for me to have fun.
  29. My possibilities are endless.
  30. I am well-rested and full of energy.
  31. I am relaxed and at peace.
  32. I am strong in mind, body, and spirit.
  33. My life is a gift.
  34. I deserve love and happiness.
  35. I care for myself.
  36. Healthy food fuels my body.
  37. Today, I will take steps to reach my goals.
  38. I give myself room to make mistakes and grow.
  39. I will find moments of joy today.
  40. I embrace my power.

Looking for more ways to stay positive?

Positive affirmations are one of the tools you can use to help manage stress and promote relaxation. Discover more ways to care for your physical and emotional well-being with our mental health resources.

Last reviewed on October 10, 2025 by Dan Gizzo, PhD

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