New year, new you! Using affirmations is like rewiring your brain for the year ahead-what you want, and who you want to become. The following 15 positive affirmations for the New Year are simple, gentle reminders to live more mindfully, kindly, and with intention.
Note: Some of the links below are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you purchase through those links. You can read my full affiliate disclosure here.
In This Post:
Come December, you'll find me cozied up in my favorite armchair for my little end-of-year ritual. I like taking the time to think about the past 12 months-the good, the amazing, and even the messy moments.
Sooo, soooo many things happen within a year. I am surprised time and again by how much can fit into just one year. Sitting in my chair, I smile, I feel thankful for it all, and then I move on to my hopes for the upcoming year. Spoiler: it's never (aehm, well, usually not - I'm human, ok?) about material things. Instead, it's about how I can experience more joy and more peace. It's about growing from within.
The Idea Behind These Affirmations
Last year's affirmations are still close to my heart (you can read them in Do Less, Be More). But this year, my focus feels a little different. I want to let go of more-physical stuff, emotional clutter, fears, expectations-all the things I tend to hold onto too tightly.
One quote that really set the tone for my intentions this year comes from Paulo Coelho:
Live simply. Dream big. Be grateful. Give love. Laugh lots.
Isn't that just... everything? I've expanded on those words to create affirmations that feel deeply personal and meaningful for me in this season of life.
Another powerful source of inspiration? Holly Butcher's open letter to the world. Holly passed away from cancer in 2018 at the age of 27, and her family shared her words shortly after her death. Her letter is heartbreaking, touching and wise beyond words. I reread it every New Year's Day as a reminder of what truly matters. One line especially sticks with me:
'The days tick by and you just expect they will keep on coming ... That's the thing about life, it is fragile, precious, unpredictable and each day is a gift, not a given right,' Holly wrote.
15 Positive Affirmations for the New Year
So, here they are: my affirmations for the new year. You can use them anytime you want a fresh start, not just on January 1st.
- I live simply.
- I own less.
- I am mindful.
- I act kindly.
- I create memories.
- I move freely.
- I breathe deeply.
- I overcome fears.
- I dream big.
- I think bold.
- I embrace myself.
- I am grateful.
- I give love.
- I act gracefully.
- I laugh lots.
Inspiring Affirmation Cards
I often turn to books and card decks for inspiration, so here are a few recommendations if you're looking for more affirmations to guide you in the New Year.
Want to keep going?
If you'd like to explore more gentle ways to reflect on the past year and step into the new one with intention, you might enjoy these posts too:
- 13 Positive Reminders for a Happy Life
- 30 Fun Reflection Questions for the New Year
- 5 Steps to Good New Year's Resolutions
- 20 Positive Intentions for a Magical Life
- Sorcova: A Fun Romanian New Year's custom
Enjoy,
Ramona
♥
PS: If you have a favorite affirmation, tell me in the comments. I'm always curious.
Ovidiu says
They are soo beautiful! I like them so much, and i just can't pick just a favorite one.
And something more, these affirmations together are like parts of something wonderful, pure. A life lived like this is like...what to want more? :))
You made an inner smile in me...
Ramona Winkler says
Thanks so much for your lovely comment. What a cute phrasing: “to make an inner smile in someone.” You definitely made one in me.