A recent article in Time magazine reports that people in low moods who repeat positive phrases may not benefit. In other words, if people who are depressed are asked to regularly repeat phrases like, " I am loved" or "I am lovable" it seems to do nothing to improve their state of mind.
Although this finding flies in the face of some popular wisdom it is, in fact, quite logical. Our sense of well being is more effectively built from the inside out rather than from the outside in.
This may be why hospital and charity based "smile campaigns" are typically unsuccessful. Leaders can order people to smile. But, it's pretty hard to force someone to be sincere with their smile. Repeating happy phrases doesn't make us happy any more than does a forced smile.
We now know, through long term and complex studies of brain chemistry, that mood formation is very difficult to understand. Although repeating positive phrases by rote may not help, we know that what does help is to turn our energy and attention to positive thought patterns instead of dwelling on negative ones.
In other words, we can choose to resent a supervisor's reprimand and begin sulking or we can choose to turn the reprimand into an opportunity for growth. Somehow, we need to be able to establish our sense of self worth on our own terms rather than to let someone else decide how we feel.
The best ways I know of to do this are to begin by accepting that we are all children of God's Love. When I listen to the voice of Love as opposed to the voice of someone who is acting disrespectfully towards me, I find a better and truer strength.
What is most helpful to you?
-Erie Chapman
Journal of Sacred Work 
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