There are different schools of thought about how to state affirmations effectively, and each taps into different psychological mechanisms for reprogramming the subconscious. Here's a breakdown of the best tried-and-proven methods, including the question format (known as "afformations"), to help you make the most impact:

1. Classic Affirmations (Declarative Statements)

These are positive statements phrased in the present tense, as if the desired outcome is already true.

How to use effectively:

  • Phrase in present tense: “I am confident and capable.”
  • Be emotionally charged: Include emotion to energize the message (e.g., “I joyfully attract abundance”).
  • Repeat consistently: Morning and night, ideally in front of a mirror.
  • Visualize as you say them: Add mental imagery of already living that reality.

Why it works: 

Studies from UCLA & Carnegie Mellon prove that self-affirmations light up the brain’s reward centers and reduce stress.

Muhammad Ali (born Cassius Clay) is one of the most famous early public figures to popularize the use of self-affirmation and visualization in sports and life. One of his most iconic affirmations was:

“I am the greatest!”

This was not just bravado—it was a conscious strategy he used to reprogram his belief system and project confidence, long before he had even become a champion.

If sports champions use affirmations successfully, it's worth to try, especially for more important goals like being the best parent, earning a good living, or saving the planet... Fake it 'til you make it!

2. Afformations (Positive Questions)

Coined by Noah St. John, afformations flip affirmations into empowering questions, which the brain instinctively tries to answer, bypassing resistance.

Example:

Instead of “I am confident,” ask:

👉 “Why am I so confident and self-assured every day?”

Instead of “I attract abundance,” ask:

👉 “Why is it so easy for me to attract opportunities and abundance?”

Why it works:

The subconscious is a problem-solver. When you ask a question, your brain starts looking for proof—this can reduce internal resistance and reinforce belief naturally.

So if classic affirmations haven't worked, these might!

3. Identity-Based Affirmations

Frame your affirmations around who you are becoming, not just what you want.

Example:

“I am the type of person who takes bold action daily.”

This aligns with James Clear’s work in Atomic Habits—identity change is more powerful than behavior change alone.

4. Subliminal and Audio Repetition

Repetition is critical for subconscious programming.

Tips:

  • Record affirmations in your voice and play them on loop.
  • Listen while falling asleep or during morning routines (theta brainwave states).
  • Combine with binaural beats or calm music.

5. Write, Speak, and Feel

Use a multi-sensory approach:

  • Write 3–10 affirmations by hand each morning.
  • Speak them aloud with emotion.
  • Feel them as if they are already true (key for subconscious alignment).

Go the extra mile: Blend the Methods!

You don’t need to choose just one. For example:

1. Start with a question:

“Why is my life filled with joy and abundance?”

2. Answer it as an affirmation:

“Because I am aligned with purpose and open to receiving.”

3. Visualize and feel it:

Imagine the scene, emotions, and success vividly.

Here's a Practical Routine (5–10 mins/day):

  • Write 3 identity-based affirmations.
  • Ask 3 empowering afformations.
  • Speak aloud all 6 with emotion.
  • Visualize one key affirmation for 60 seconds.
  • Listen to a recorded loop before sleep.

Conclusion: How Affirmations Help People Achieve their Dreams

The proof is in Ali...

  • Ali used affirmations like “I am the greatest” before he had proof — to train his subconscious and build an unshakable identity.
  • His body wasn't textbook-perfect, but he transformed limitations into unique advantages.
  • His record, mental game, and legacy speak for themselves.

“Champions aren’t made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them—a desire, a dream, a vision.” – Muhammad Ali

World-class athletes use affirmations to win medals and break records, therefore, they have already proved they work, how they work, and how we can use them to fulfill our soul’s purpose.

If these techniques can help someone become a champion in the ring, they can just as powerfully help us become champions in life—whether it’s being a more present parent, creating meaningful work, or helping build a more compassionate, sustainable world.

We’re all fighting for something. And if affirmations can sharpen focus, build belief, and rewire the mind for greatness in sports, imagine what they can do for the things that matter most.

So yes—speak it, believe it, live it.

Fake it ’til you make it... or better yet, affirm it until you become it.