"An Affirmation for all Seasons"

According to leading Sports Psychologist Kay Porter, people, in this case athletes, spend too much time seeking approval from others, when the most important source of approval actually needs to come from within. We often look to significant others, coaches, and other outlets for approval; however, in order to perform at your best and reap the true benefits of approval from others, self-approval needs to come first.

With practice, stating affirmations daily to yourself can allow for self-acknowledgment. Various life and sport situations may yield affirmation, and below is a sampling for a number of them.

For Perseverance: "I am persistant.", "I am patient.", "What I have to say is important."

For Psyching Yourself Up: "I am aggressive", "I am well-respected", "I hang in there."

Reframing and letting go of losses: "I learn from setbacks.", It is okay and I am okay.", "I take care of myself."

Feeling Overwhelmed: "I am centered and relaxed", "I listen easily.", "I work on an even pace."

Fearing the unknown: "I welcome prosperity in my life.", I acknowledge my success.", "I let in the praise of others."

Handling success: "This is fun!", "I take (reasonable) time to enjoy my success.", "I deserve to succeed."

Being Stressed: "I see and use stressful situations as a challenge.", "I am patient and relaxed.", "I take priority to relax once a day." "Breathe deeply."

Advocating for self: "I am worthy of respect.", "I trust and respect myself.", "I am proud of myself and accomplishments."

Not all categories will be relevant to every individual, and again, the trick is to find what works for you. These are most useful when practiced regularly, across situations. Porter (2003) believes that it is helpful to read affirmations on paper before bed and upon waking. Over time, these are designed to change your attitudes about yourself and abilities.

For example, a runner has been recently experiencing self-doubt in regards to gaining a scholarship but needs to advocate for herself to recruiters. To combat anxiety and change attitudes regarding her ability and situation, she affirms herself when anxious that she deserves a scholarship as much as anybody and she is patient and hardworking. Affirmations are usually simple statements, however, they can be highly beneficial, even in complex situations.

Porter, K. (2003). The mental athlete. Human Kinetics.