Can you write affirmations instead of saying them?
The simple, direct answer is yes. You can choose to write affirmations instead of saying them, depending on your unique circumstances. But will it have the same effect as spoken affirmations, and when is it appropriate to write affirmations instead of speaking them? We’ll provide answers to this and more in this article.
So, stick with us.
Does Writing Affirmations Work Better Than Saying Them?
There’s been a debate between speaking and writing affirmations, but in my opinion, it all comes down to personal preferences and your unique situation. But let’s look at the science.
When you say an affirmation, you’re using your voice and ears. On the other hand, when you write an affirmation, you’re engaging your brain, eyes, and the motor skills of your hand. This is known as the “Generation Effect.”
So, when you write affirmations, your brain is more likely to remember and believe the information since you physically produced it. This sticks more than something you thought about or said too quickly. In summary, writing acts as a bridge between your internal thoughts and the physical world, which makes it effective for affirmations.
The Benefits of Writing Affirmations
If you’re still unconvinced about whether you should write or speak affirmations, these three reasons will convince you:
- Higher Focus: When speaking affirmations, your mind might wander. But when writing, it is harder for your mind to wander as you are physically and mentally engaged.
- The Paper Trail: When you write affirmations, you are creating your personal manifestation log. The good thing about this is that in moments when you feel low, you can look back on the things you’ve written and appreciate how far you’ve come, especially how your mindset has changed.
- Privacy and Comfort: If you live with other people and feel awkward saying your affirmations aloud, writing them is a perfect option. Writing is a private, quiet act, and belongs only to you.
Instances Where Writing Affirmations Is the Better or Only Option
As mentioned, writing affirmations is a choice you can make, but there are situations when it is the only option to see results. Some of those instances include the following:
When Your Inner Critic is Too Loud
Sometimes, when we say affirmations out loud, there’s an inner voice that makes us feel like we’re lying. For example, you can say, “I am confident,” while feeling anxious, causing your brain to reject it. In such situations, it is best to write the affirmations. Writing helps bypass the inner critic and allows you to process the statement visually and mentally without feeling like a fraud.
When in a Shared Public Space
If you’re in a shared public space and feel the need to speak affirmations, but are shy or want to be discreet, you can write your affirmations. This way, you can get the mental boost you need while keeping things private.
When Dealing With a Disability
When dealing with a disability like blindness or the inability to speak, the person has no choice but to use written affirmations. If you know someone with a disability, you can also write something for them as a form of encouragement during their trying times.
When Dealing With High Stress
When you feel overwhelmed, your working memory might be compromised. You might start speaking affirmations and find your mind wandering to different things. In such a situation, it is best to write the affirmations. Writing will help you anchor your focus and give your mind the reprogramming it needs.
When You Need to Achieve Complex Goals
If you’re trying to manifest a goal, speaking words of affirmation might not be enough. You need to clearly write down the goals so you can always view them and train your subconscious to believe the words until they materialise.
How to Write Affirmations for Success
To write affirmations that actually “program” your subconscious, you need to follow a few simple rules. First, use “I am” instead of “I want” or “I will.” By doing so, your brain will believe what you’re affirming is happening now and not some time in the future.
For example, instead of saying:
- I will be a successful business owner.
Say,
- I am a confident leader of a successful business who provides massive value.
The next step is making it emotional. You must feel the words you’re writing so that your brain will not ignore them. Use words that invoke feelings like grateful, energised, peaceful, or unstoppable.
Finally, be specific and not vague. This means instead of just saying, “I am wealthy,” say, “I am attracting high-paying opportunities that align with my skills.” When you write affirmations this way, you will get the results you desire.
Final Thoughts
With all we’ve said, it is evident that speaking is not the only way to use affirmations. Writing affirmations is just as powerful as speaking them, and it is a great way to take control of your internal narrative and silence your inner critic. So, start writing today, and begin the transformation you need in your life.
