Your Student Life: Affirmations

May 26, 2026

Self-affirmations sometimes get a bad rap for being cheesy, but research shows they can make a real difference. In fact, studies suggest that practicing affirmations can improve performance, even when facing setbacks.

Try creating affirmations that follow these guidelines:

• About You
  Example: “I trust that I am a hardworking, competent student”
  (Instead of: “My luck with classes will turn around eventually”)
• Present Tense
  Example: “I’m working toward being a better listener in my relationship”
  (Instead of: “I will be a good partner someday”)
• Positive
  Example: “I am dedicated to keeping up with my responsibilities as best as I can”
  (Instead of: “I’m trying not to be as lazy as last winter”)
• Short and Sweet
  Example: “I prioritize making time for my close friends”
  (Instead of writing an essay about how great your friends are hard to recite on the fly!)
• Important (To You)
  Example: “I’m a resilient person who overcomes challenges”
  (Instead of: “I like broccoli”)

Two Practical Examples:

• Academic: “I am capable of mastering challenging material and staying organized this semester.”
• Well-being: “I prioritize my mental health and make time for activities that recharge me.”

Affirmations work best when they feel authentic and meaningful so choose words that truly resonate with you.

Start small one affirmation a day can shift your mindset!

 

Counseling and Consultation Service
Office of Student Life