This is from Zig Ziglar; 1926–2012, a master teacher in the art of self motivation. Few could say it better, none with more zest and enthusiasm.
Step #1:
For thirty days first thing in the morning, last thing at night, by yourself, in front of a mirror, stand up straight, square your shoulders, look yourself in the eye, and quietly, firmly say in the first person, present tense: “I, ___________________ am an honest, intelligent, goal-directed, responsible individual with integrity, and I am sensitive to the needs of others. I am an enthusiastic, decisive, self-starter with a positive mental attitude and I am focused on the task at hand. I am a disciplined, persistent, caring, energetic, experienced, competent team player with the courage to take action and do what is right. I am a dependable, motivated, hardworking extra-miler.
“I am a humble, kind, personable, attentive, considerate, resourceful person who takes pride in my appearance and in what I do. I have a good sense of humor and a healthy self-image. I am a fair, patient, consistent, respectful encourager and student. I am a confident, optimistic, authoritative, creative, adaptable, sober, loyal, punctual, teachable person with strong convictions. I am an effective communicator with the vision, wisdom and faith necessary to realize my dreams.
“I am an honorable person who is truly grateful for the opportunity life has given me and I am committed to taking full advantage of that opportunity. These are the qualities of the winner I was born to be, and I am fully committed to developing these marvelous qualities with which I have been entrusted.”
At night say, “Tonight I am going to sleep wonderfully well. I will dream powerful, positive dreams. I will awaken energized and refreshed. Tomorrow is going to be magnificent, and my future is unlimited.”
In the morning say, “These are the qualities of the winner I was born to be, and I will develop and use these qualities to achieve my worthy objectives. Today is a brand new day, and it is mine to use in a marvelously productive way.”
Step #2:
After 30 days, add your strongest quality and the one you feel needs the most work. Example: Strongest–honest. Needs most work–organized. On a separate 3×5 card, print “I __________ am a completely honest person, and every day I am getting better and better organized.” Do this first thing in the morning and last thing at night for one week; then repeat the process with the second strongest quality and the second one which needs the most work. Do this until you’ve completed the entire list. This process will change your life for the better.