Affirm Foundation
One of my favorite characters from the 1989 film Steel Magnolias is Ouiser Boudreaux, played by Shirley MacLaine. If you’ve seen the film, you know her as the cantankerous elderly neighbor of the family whose story is central to the film and, in her crotchety way, serves as the comic relief.
As the story unfolds, we learn that underneath Ousier’s crusty exterior, she’s got a gooey, soft center. But she’d be the last to admit it, as evidenced by her defense of her own good naturedness when she exclaims, “I’m pleasant! Damn it. I saw Drum Eatenton this morning at the Piggly Wiggly, and I smiled at the [SOB] 'fore I could help myself!”
We’ve all encountered a Ouiser in our life, but rarely is our relationship to that person one of comic relief. It’s hard to suffer under that certain aunt’s criticism, or a parent’s unfair judgments, or - most often in our adult life - the boss who seems to hate us or the co-worker who always seems to be trying to undermine us.
This is where positive affirmations can really shine. You can’t control other people, but you can control what you think of other people. If you change your inner narrative about this person by stating to yourself phrases like these, I guarantee you’ll get a different result:
“My boss is always generous and kind to me.”
“My mother/father loves me and supports me.”
“My child respects me.”
“My husband/wife is an excellent partner in my life’s journey.”
Why it works: When you create the belief within you that something is true, you actually make it true. I know that sounds a bit crazy, but personalities can range from good to bad in any situation. And as an energetic being, you can ask for what you get. If you always ask to see the best in someone, that’s what they will show you. But it has to start with you changing your perception, and affirmations are a good way to reprogram your subconscious mind to install new beliefs.
This week, try it out on that person who rubs you the wrong way. I’d love to hear how it works out for you.
Shared with love,
Gayle
FURTHER EXPLORATION
FURTHER EXPLORATION
Early in my journey to address complex PTSD, my healer suggested listening to tracks from The Honest Guys on YouTube as a way to calm down and reframe my situation. These guys don't disappoint - they offer a number of meditations and affirmations to help you reprogram the mind tracks that are keeping you running in circles.
About Me
I am a business life coach who helps other entrepreneurs make more money while achieving greater peace. I do this by blending Business Made Simple's proven frameworks for predictable business success with the wisdom I've gained from an extensive exploration of mind-body-spirit principles and healing modalities.