We often make the mistake of convincing ourselves that the life we want is not possible for us. We life through others eyes and forget our own lives. We forget our vision. We put our dreams on the back burner. I am here to tell you that the life you want is here. Don’t stop believing!

Today I’d like to give you 20 affirmations that have helped me in times of need. You can say these out loud or in your mind. You can speak them individually or all together. The choice is up to you. May they lift you up when you are down and allow you to keep the fire of your desire burning.

I saw a movie recently called Anna and was reminded how powerful the game of Chess can be. If we can find a love or even a modest interest in the game it can do wonders for our brain. The way we think on a daily basis. The decisions we make. Being able to think before we act can be a literal life saver. Chess is a game that continues to teach us throughout the years. Do you play Chess?

Each of us has a shadow self. A dark part of us inside that others and even we may be unaware. I learned this concept from a friend and saw it depicted in the movie “Us” by Jordan Peele. Our shadow self may not be as evil as was portrayed in the movie, but it can be sinister at times. We must find an outlet for our shadow self so as to not be dethroned by it.

The easiest and most difficult thing can be self-discipline. All we have to do is show up. Checking things off the list. We struggle to find motivation and drive. Then we turn to discipline and sometimes even that fails us. One thing that has proven time and time again to encourage success is the right environment. When we have the right environment we are naturally geared towards success.

It’s okay to support yourself. It’s okay to root for yourself. It’s okay to cheer yourself on. If you don’t believe in yourself, how else can others believe in you? You can be your biggest fan. For if not you, who? Realize that creativity is your birthright. Be inspired to continue creating today.

“It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.” Realize that you are not just an archetype. You are an individual. You are unique in so many ways. There may be people in your field who have more talent, more knowledge, or more skills. But there is only one you! Everything you touch has your touch on it. Don’t be afraid to be yourself. It’s who you were born to be.

I got this Mantra from a book by Dean Graziosi. If I can get through this, I can get through anything. It lets you know to keep pushing because you are acquiring the strength required to make it through trials that lay ahead. Your journey is not over. There will be more tests to come, but if you can make it through this you can make it through anything.

I noticed an unusual billboard off the side of the highway one day. It read “I just rented this billboard to say: I Love You.” Such a simple message with such a profound impact. How many people may be affected by this message of love. I believe that things like this ripple out into the Universe as a force for good. If there are random acts of violence, why can’t there be more random acts of kindness?