We all need a bit of encouragement and inspiration sometimes. In my therapy practice, some of the most common problems I see are clients being hard on themselves, getting caught up in negative thinking cycles, not speaking up for themselves, avoiding doing the healthy things, or being scared to feel their feelings. It is important to learn to be a good coach and a good parent to yourself. If you never had a good parent who understood and encouraged you, you may not know where to start. Here are some encouraging words you can use. Pick your favorite ones and pin them on an inspiration board, put stickies on your fridge, or make a flashcard to carry with you so you can use it in times of stress.

1. You’re doing the best you can
2. Life isn’t always fair
3. Just get started
4. It’s OK to take a break
5. We don’t always get what we want
6. This too will pass
7. Today is a new day
8. It’s a bad day, not a bad life
9. Other people have their issues too
10. Stick to your healthy routine
11. Keep your eyes on the goal
12. You can’t control what you think, but you can control what you do
13. Be kind
14. Allow yourself to feel
15. Express your dissatisfaction constructively
16. You can’t control what other people say or do
17. Be authentic
18. It’s OK to set boundaries and stick to them
19. You don’t have to please everybody
20. Don’t listen to your judging mind
21. Avoidance makes things worse
22. It takes courage to face your own weaknesses
23. Treat yourself with compassion
24. Surround yourself with healthy people
25. You can get through this
26. You don’t have to be perfect, you just have to try your best
27. You can learn and grow from your mistakes
28. Learn from the past, but don’t get stuck in it
29. If your old ways aren’t working, try something new
30. Some things are worth being uncomfortable for
31. You don’t have to tolerate abusive behavior
32. Don’t let anyone or anything control you
33. Find your own voice
34. It’s OK to feel
35. Vulnerability can be a strength
36. Take care of your inner child
37. Don’t listen to critical voices; your own or other people’s
38. Look for love in healthy ways
39. Stay grounded
40. Don’t compare your insides to someone else’s outsides
41. You can learn to keep yourself safe
42. Let your values guide you
43. Ask for support when you need it
44. Walk your own path but make room for others
45. Follow your passions.
46. Get up again when you fall
47. Don’t judge anybody without understanding their circumstances
48. Everybody messes up sometimes
49. Learn to forgive yourself
50. Respect yourself and others