Curiosity has always been my constant companion. Lately, I’ve been experimenting with anchoring my curiosity in affirmations—using them as a tool to reset my perspective, manage anxiety, and break free from negative thought patterns.
But here’s the catch: affirmations don’t always feel authentic. Many times, they seem forced, like a script we tell ourselves without truly believing it. And that’s where curiosity comes in—not to contradict affirmations, but to validate them.
For years, I saw decision-making as binary—either a yes or a no—until I discovered the magic of relating. Instead of seeing affirmations as a push from negative to positive, I began seeing them as a bridge between reality and possibility. This shift has transformed not just my mindset but also the way I approach coaching, leadership, and personal growth.
Breaking Free from the Addiction to Positivity
As a facilitator and coach, I’ve observed a societal obsession with positivity—a mask that many wear as a defense mechanism rather than a true mindset. The pressure to always be “positive” often suppresses genuine emotions and self-exploration. But what are we avoiding when we insist on relentless optimism?
- • Are we afraid of complexity?
- • Do we resist acknowledging our doubts?
- • Have we stopped being curious about our choices?
💡What if relentless positivity is blocking authentic self-awareness?
In our pursuit of a world filled with positive affirmations, we often overlook the struggles that shape us. This is where curiosity becomes a powerful ally, guided by one of its most potent questions:
WHAT IF?
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The Evolution of My Affirmations
Over the years, my approach to affirmations has transformed. Instead of merely reciting them, I’ve infused curiosity into them—allowing my mind to explore possibilities rather than force beliefs.
1. Curiosity Like a Child
“What if I looked at this again, but from a different angle?”
Children approach the world with wide-eyed wonder. They ask why and how repeatedly, always open to new perspectives. I’ve started applying this mindset to my decisions—seeing the same situation through a fresh, curious lens every time.
2. Believing in Magic Again
“What if I stopped limiting my curiosity with the need for legitimacy?”
To a child, a magician is a sorcerer; to an adult, a magician is a trickster. Somewhere along the way, we lose our belief in possibility. I’ve embraced the ‘What If’ mindset before making rigid yes/no judgments, allowing space for creativity and exploration.
3. Finding Peace Within
“What if I built a network that supports my failures?”
Children have an innate trust system—they believe in the world around them. I’ve intentionally surrounded myself with ‘Trust Warriors’—people who provide honest feedback and constructive forward-thinking insights. The trick isn’t just attracting such people but also accepting their insights with openness.
4. There’s Always a ‘New’
“What if I allowed myself to be vulnerable?”
By nurturing curiosity, trust, and resilience, I’ve noticed an interesting shift—people around me have become curious about me. Vulnerability has become an icebreaker, fostering deeper bonds. When I am comfortable in my skin, it signals to others: I’m OK. You’re OK.
The Power of Affirmations and Curiosity in Executive Coaching
In executive coaching and leadership development, affirmations are often used to reframe limiting beliefs and encourage a growth mindset. However, when combined with curiosity, their impact becomes even more profound.
1. Challenging Limiting Beliefs
Executives often struggle with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Instead of just stating, “I am a great leader,” I encourage my clients to ask:
“What if I already have the qualities of a great leader, but I just haven’t recognized them yet?”
By adding curiosity to affirmations, we open doors to deeper self-awareness and a more authentic belief system.
2. Enhancing Decision-Making
In high-pressure environments, leaders often feel trapped in binary thinking—yes or no, right or wrong. Instead of saying, “I must make the right choice,” I encourage them to ask:
“What if I explored alternative perspectives before deciding?”
This shifts the focus from fear of failure to exploration of possibilities—a mindset that fosters strategic and innovative leadership.
3. Encouraging Resilience
Setbacks are inevitable in leadership. Instead of saying, “I will bounce back,” leaders can ask:
“What if this setback is an opportunity for a breakthrough?”
This small shift transforms resilience from a forced action into an organic process—one that is fueled by curiosity rather than obligation.
4. Building a Culture of Openness
Organizations thrive when leaders embrace learning, feedback, and vulnerability. Instead of saying, “I know what’s best for my team,” a more effective approach is:
“What if my team has insights I haven’t considered?”
This simple change in language creates psychological safety, fostering an environment where collaboration and innovation flourish.
Affirmations That Truly Work
Reaching a state of mental neutrality—where we accept our flaws without self-judgment—isn’t easy. It requires deliberate practice and genuine self-compassion. But the joy of crafting affirmations rooted in curiosity and authenticity has been rewarding.
Every day, I remind myself:
- • Affirmations aren’t about forcing positivity. They’re about creating space for curiosity, acceptance, and growth.
- • It’s OK to not have all the answers. What matters is staying curious.
- • Looking in the mirror and saying, "I’m OK," is enough.
Final Thoughts: The Shift from Forced Positivity to Curious Affirmations
If we let go of the pressure to be endlessly positive and instead embrace curiosity, we give ourselves permission to explore, learn, and grow.
“What if affirmations weren’t about changing who you are but about recognizing the potential that already exists within you?”
“What if curiosity was the missing piece in unlocking your next level of leadership and self-awareness?”
Try asking ‘What If’—and see where it takes you.
📩 Ready to Lead with Curiosity?
If this blog resonated with you, we invite you to explore our executive coaching solutions or download our guide on reframing leadership beliefs. Let curiosity be your compass.
