Feeling good about yourself sounds simple, but often it’s the hardest thing to do. From the moment you look in the mirror, you might notice everything you wish were different instead of what makes you uniquely you. That first thought can set the tone for your day—your confidence fades, your mindset turns negative, and your inner spark starts to dim.
Before you’ve even stepped outside, your day can feel like an uphill battle. I’ve been there—ignoring my true self, overlooking my kind heart, my bright smile and the quiet strength that’s always been there.
As a young girl, I faced many challenges, but the biggest was bullying. It shaped my school years and chipped away at my confidence and ability to stand up for myself. Sadly, that lack of confidence followed me into adulthood, showing up in relationships and self-doubt that held me back for years. When your voice feels silenced, even small struggles can feel enormous, and it’s easy to lose sight of where to turn.
Then, in 2020—when the world stood still—I discovered affirmations. Words began to form in my mind, turning into short, powerful phrases that reminded me of who I was. Writing became my outlet and my healing. As I wrote more, I started to change. Affirmations helped me believe in myself again. They reminded me that I matter, that I’m capable, and that anything is possible.
That’s what I love most about affirmations: their quiet power to change how you feel about yourself, day by day. They carried me through my darkest moments, helping me rediscover the person I’d lost and giving me the courage to chase what once felt impossible.
In late 2022, one of those “impossible” dreams came true—I published my first book of affirmations, Reflection in the Mirror – You Are Enough. It’s a collection of messages about self-worth, confidence, belief, and having a voice. Since then, it’s reached readers across schools and communities, helping students stand tall against bullying, social media pressure and self-doubt. The book has given people hope, strength, and belief that they matter—that their voice deserves to be heard.
This is the power of affirmations: to restore hope, build strength, and remind us that anything is possible when we believe in ourselves.
A few affirmations to keep close
I can do anything.
I control my own life.
I believe in myself.
This is my life.
“Always believe in yourself—your kindness, your true inner self. It will guide you day by day.”
“Embrace growth and positivity. Remember who you are. You’ve got this. Believe, and you will go far.”
“Believe in yourself and who you are. It’s your life to live—you have so much to give.”
By Kristen MacDonald
Kristen MacDonald is a writer, author and card designer dedicated to inspiring confidence, kindness and self-belief through her work.
