Life in the Bike Lane: Cycling affirmations

We know setting goals is a good way to keep track of what you want to achieve in life, or on your bike, but did you know daily affirmations make it even more likely you will achieve those goals? The word affirm means "to state positively; to maintain as true." An affirmation is a positive statement that helps you consciously focus on your thoughts. By stating affirmations that are ALREADY true, you're essentially manifesting them into reality. As we move about our day, our subconscious is then looking for opportunities to bring our affirmations to life. Essentially, you're helping your mind prioritize positivity over negativity. You're forcing your brain to find ways to override those negative thoughts we are conditioned to having. (I stole most of the above from the internet.) So, here are 29 cycling affirmations for you for the leap year month of February. Feel free to put them on little cards or just read one each day. My thanks to Megan Flatt (Focused) for inspiration. 1. Hydrate. 2. Match your ride to your energy. 3. Prepare for your ride. Focus. 4. You have enough time for a ride. 5. You don't have to ride alone (and maybe you shouldn't). 6. You are in charge of your ride. 7. New gear adds fun. 8. Focus only on your ride. 9. Call a friend to ride with you. 10. Riding is part of self-care. 11. A short ride may be better. 12. You can always change your route. 13. Take five deep breaths, then climb. 14. What kind of ride do you feel like today? 15. Not every ride goes as planned. Adapt. 16. What is one thing you want to accomplish on today's ride? 17. Every ride does not need to be a training ride. 18. You deserve that mid-ride doughnut. 19. Stop. Breathe. Stretch. 20. Your ride will take you where you need to be. 21. You got this. 22. A ride is productive. 23. Your brain needs a ride. 24. A ride should be fun. 25. It's OK to take a break from riding. 26. You don't have to be the best rider today. 27. Planning a ride can pay off. No plan can, too. 28. Turn off your GPS. 29. Celebrate a good ride.