5 Mantras for Working Hard

I like to consider myself a hard worker. There are a lot of things I am not, but usually, I'm a pretty hard worker. I'm really motivated by success and seeing things turn out well when I spend effort on them. I love before and after pictures. I love change that comes from determination and perseverance.

But sometimes...I don't want to do the work--especially when it comes to working out sometimes. I want the results but not the work. I want instant success. When that happens, I really have to focus to make sure I keep working hard. 

One thing that I do sometimes is pick out a phrase or a saying and just repeat it to myself over and over and over till it becomes part of every breath and the only thought in my head. Here are a few mantras that I use:

My character is shown through my work ethic.

Choose the pain of discipline or the pain of regret.

Nothing feels better than doing the work.

Pain now, pride later.

Inhale determination, exhale excuses.

Kind of cheesy, I know, but give them a try sometime! Next time you're on a run or even just trying to get through a crappy work shift, pick a mantra or make up your own and let it carry you until you're done.

What do you think? Are there any mantras you like for hard work and perseverance?

Affirmation #1

Here's a new idea for a series that I had, revolving around mantras and positive affirmations and some short thoughts on them. I'm experimenting with some new content for blog posts...let me know what you think!

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION:

I am already successful and I will continue to be.

This week, I've been preparing for a big exam in chemistry, a class that doesn't come very naturally to me. I've been working hard and doing well but after a lower grade on a quiz, my confidence in my chemistry skills was shattered. I was convinced that I would never get the grade I needed on this exam and that I should just give up. 

But for some reason, I was able to convince myself that positivity was a better approach. I took a short break from studying and meditated for not even fifteen minutes, using this affirmation, repeating it to myself. (P.S. Meditation tip: I love this background music.) 

Afterwards, I reminded myself that I had succeeded in the class early on and that my hard work and determination when I wasn't confident in myself were success enough and will continue to bring me more success. It might be in the form of an A...it might be in the form of knowledge that I tried my hardest.

Do you ever meditate or use affirmations? How do you remind yourself of your successes?