How I Go to Bed and Wake Up

I recently shared this with some friends and they got a kick out of it, so I thought I'd share it with you. Just because.

Before I'm on the brink of falling asleep, the last thing I repeat to myself several times is:

"All the people and projects I am seeking are also seeking me. I give thanks to God for bringing us together in a perfect and graceful way." (Feel free to use the word "universe" if that's more comfortable).

or

"The perfect __________ (whatever I'm in need of) is on its way. And it will arrive with ease and joy."

I say the same thing before I get out of bed in the morning. By the way, a whole slew of what I'm grateful for usually proceeds this part. Going through these affirmations is like a shot of expresso for my sense of optimism and hope about the future. They ground me closer to hope vs. fear or uncertainty. I wish I could say I meditate everyday, but I don't. So this, in the least, is the mini mind-heart training I do.

Positive psychology dances around how focusing on what you want makes it happen. But I have read about "activating thoughts" and how the thoughts you focus on do expand...but I'll have to tie in the science appropriately another night. However, there are several studies that demonstrate how being optimistic helps you live longer, have better relationships, perform better at work, and so much more. So literally, optimism adds years to your life and is worthwhile.

I'm off to bed soon. By the way, getting enough sleep is something I'm really focusing on. If you're tired, you're less likely to enjoy the things that bring you joy which makes me feel shitty. Because in those moments I often forget it's exhaustion that's causing my sense of lacklusterness and then I blame myself or spiral into pity partydom. But really, I'm just tired. So to maximize my happy day, I'm honoring (as best I can) the rest my body needs to shine on.

With much love...goodnight.
Stella

P.S. I know a lot of you are much smarter about positive affirmations than I am. So please pitch in your tips or your own affirmations here.