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There’s value in patting yourself (and your friends) on the back. Positive affirmations are statements that can help brighten your outlook on the world when you say them to yourself regularly or write them down in a journal. While affirmations are no substitute for professional help such as therapy when you're experiencing anxiety or depression, those who swear by the power of uplifting language do find that it increases their self-esteem and improves their mindset. If you're looking to form better mental health habits, this is a great—and free—place to start.

What's more, it may help boost your overall health, too. Studies support the idea that the words we choose matter: A good positive affirmation can help you combat stress and increase the neural pathways in your brain. Other research found that saying or writing them down may foster a deeper sense of belonging in school for students, leading to improved grades. While you can certainly dream up your own uniquely inspiring phrases to say every day, our list of hopeful quotes include the wise words of beloved authors such as Toni Morrison, Elizabeth Gilbert, Maya Angelou, and of course, Oprah. So, before those negative thoughts creep in, consider giving one of these 40 positive affirmations a try.