Developing Self-Affirming Statements – Worksheet 1

This worksheet focuses on developing self-affirming statements to boost self-esteem and confidence during recovery. It highlights how individuals often seek approval and affirmation from external sources, which can sometimes be unfulfilling or even harmful. Chronic discouragement, stemming from emotional neglect, verbal abuse, or toxic environments, can severely damage one’s self-worth and drive addiction. The worksheet encourages self-reflection on these experiences, urging individuals to identify positive sources of encouragement and, importantly, to become their own source of affirmation. By practicing positive self-talk and seeking inspiration from uplifting resources, individuals can empower themselves and build a steady foundation of self-confidence.

Written by clinical psychologist Dr. Hal Baumchen, PsyD, LP, LADC, this printable PDF worksheet gives clinicians a practical, session-ready tool. The conversational, encouraging tone makes clinical concepts accessible to clients at any stage of recovery, while structured prompts keep the work focused and productive.

How clinicians use it: as an in-session exercise to open and structure discussion, as between-session homework to reinforce skills, as a progress tool to track growth over time, and as part of a treatment unit paired with the companion lesson and PowerPoint on this topic. Formatted for easy printing and immediate use in individual or group settings.