Why Your Affirmations Aren’t Working (And How to Fix Them for Real Results)

Ughhh! Are You Using Affirmations but Not Seeing Any Results?

You’ve lit the candles, set the mood, stared into the mirror, and repeated affirmations like, “I am confident. I am thriving. I am unstoppable.” But instead of feeling inspired, you’re wondering why these words aren’t making a dent in your life. Am I doing something wrong? you ask yourself. Well, first of all—no, you’re not! The truth is, you’re not alone in feeling this way.

Here’s the thing about affirmations: they’re not magic spells. Simply saying the words doesn’t guarantee change. But wait, you might think, then what’s the point? Don’t worry, I’m not here to crush your hopes and dreams. Quite the opposite! Affirmations can be a game-changer when they’re done in a way that works with your mind instead of against it.

So, if repeating phrases feels like shouting into the void, it’s probably because the affirmations you’re using aren’t tailored to the way your brain absorbs and processes them. And guess what? That’s something we can fix—easily. A little understanding of how your mind works, paired with a fresh approach to crafting affirmations, might be all you need to finally turn those words into a reality

What’s Your Suggestibility Style? Emotional vs. Physical

Dr. John Kappas’, a forefather of hypnotherapy, laid out a suggestibility theory that explains that we all interpret and internalize language differently. At its core, there are two main types of suggestibility: physical and emotional.

• Physical Suggestibility: If you’re more on the physical side, you respond best to direct language. Statements like “I am calm” or “I trust myself” resonate deeply because your mind takes them at face value.

  
  

• Emotional Suggestibility: If you lean toward the emotional end, subtle and indirect language is your jam. You may prefer affirmations like “I’m beginning to open up to trust” or “Each breath brings calmness.” Emotional suggestible often need affirmations that flow with nuance and evoke imagery, bypassing resistance

Curious which type resonates with you? Take this suggestibility test to learn more about your style. Knowing how your mind works will help you create affirmations that feel natural—and powerful. IT'S FREE! ------> https://hypnosis.edu/sq/intro

Let’s Rework Your Affirmations (and Make Them Actually Stick)

When affirmations don’t work, it’s often because they’re disconnected from your inner world. It’s like trying to fit into a pair of jeans that are two sizes too small—not only uncomfortable but downright frustrating. The key to making affirmations click is tapping into your emotions and engaging your imagination to bring the words to life. This is where the magic happens.

1. Start Small and Honest

Your subconscious can be like a skeptical friend—it won’t believe something too far-fetched. For example, if you’re feeling anxious, don’t jump straight to “I am fearless.” Start with something grounded, like:

• “I’m learning to feel braver each day.”

• “It’s okay for me to explore courage in my own time.”

  
  

These statements bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

2. Engage Your Emotions and Senses

Here’s the juicy part: True affirmations don’t stop at words. Close your eyes and visualize the affirmation unfolding in your life. Use all five senses to step into the experience. For example:

• If your affirmation is “I am abundant,” imagine what abundance smells like—freshly brewed coffee at your dream job, the soft leather of your car seats. Picture the vibrant green of trees surrounding your future home. Feel the crisp, cool air on your skin as you walk through a neighborhood you love. Taste the flavors of the celebratory meal you’ll treat yourself to when you achieve a goal.
  

• If it’s “I am confident,” imagine standing tall with radiant posture, feeling the texture of a bold outfit that makes you shine. Hear your voice steady and warm as you share your ideas and see yourself smiling authentically in the mirror.

The more you immerse yourself in these sensory details, the more your brain begins to accept the affirmation as real.

3. Shift Toward Gratitude

Transform affirmations into a celebration of what’s already unfolding. Gratitude has a way of softening resistance. For example:

• Instead of “I am successful,” try “I’m grateful for the small wins that are leading me to my success.”
  

• Or, instead of “I am loved,” affirm, “I deeply appreciate the love I’m starting to receive and give."

  
  

4. Make It Yours

Affirmations aren’t one-size-fits-all. They should feel like a comforting, encouraging hug from your higher self. If “I am calm” feels forced, try something like, “Each deep breath I take brings a wave of calm over me.” Test different phrases and trust your intuition about what resonates.

You’re Building the Future You Desire—One Word at a Time

Affirmations aren’t about forcing yourself to believe something that doesn’t feel right.

They’re about nudging open the door of possibility, one step at a time. So next time you’re repeating those words in the mirror, close your eyes, breathe deep, and step into the world you’re creating for yourself—one that feels real, vibrant, and oh-so-you.

Remember, it’s okay if it takes time to find affirmations that click. You’re growing, learning, and becoming every single day. And trust me, you’ve got this.

much love, Karissa

"When your affirmations start to transpire into your life...."