Is Positive Self-Talk Just Voodoo?

It’s hard to stay “positive” when your life feels like a nonstop juggling act—between caring for an aging parent, work, home responsibilities, and trying to find a spare five minutes just to breathe.

You’ve got a pile of responsibilities, zero free time, and people telling you to whisper affirmations to yourself in the mirror like that’s going to magically fix everything? Yeah, no thanks.

But hold up—don’t roll your eyes just yet. As much as it sounds like fluffy nonsense, there is evidence that positive self-affirmations work.

So... Is It Just a Trend?

Nope. This isn’t about pretending things are fine when they’re definitely not. It’s about how you talk to yourself when life gets hard—and whether you build yourself up or tear yourself down in the process.

According to researchers at Carnegie Mellon University, people who used affirmations before facing something stressful were better at solving problems.

“People under high stress can foster better problem-solving simply by taking a moment beforehand to think about something that is important to them... It’s an easy-to-use and portable strategy you can roll out before you enter that high-pressure performance situation.”

In another study, researchers from UC Santa Barbara and Cornell University found that self-affirmations helped people see challenges as smaller and more manageable.

Studies also show that when affirmations help you feel better about yourself, you’re more likely to treat yourself with care—like choosing healthier foods or moving your body more often.

The Importance For Caregivers

As a caregiver, you’re constantly pouring from your cup. You're fielding tough conversations, dealing with unpredictable moods, juggling appointments, and making sure everyone’s needs are met—often at the expense of your own.

Affirmations help refill it.

They won’t erase the hard stuff—but they do help you approach it with a steadier mindset. They remind you of your strength, your value, and the fact that you are doing your best—even when it doesn’t feel like it. Over time, they can help you see constant challenges as things you’re equipped to handle, instead of overwhelming obstacles.

And let’s not forget: taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. Affirmations can be that small, daily nudge that keeps you connected to your own well-being, nudging you toward choices that support both you and the person you’re caring for.