Words We Speak: Part One

Today we are going to discover how the words we use impact our lives. Those of us who are already aware of this are careful in the words we speak, or even think. For others who are not, I hope this helps bring some awareness to you and that it positively influences the way you speak to yourself and other people.

How many of us have conversations and not realize that we often speak the opposite of what we mean? I remember when I became consciously aware of doing it myself. It was after having read a self-development book about communication. Many of the conversations and thoughts I had up to that point included opposing words of what I wanted to convey. For instance, saying, “Don’t forget to…” or “Never…” seemed an easier choice. It’s automatic. They were what I needed to say and people understood me. So what is the issue with using those words? Nothing – in and of themselves, they are words. However, if you are looking for a better way to communicate, then the positive version of any word is the best option. There is more than one way to say a thing and there is always an antonym for a word. So instead of saying, “Don’t forget…” I now say, “Remember…,” and instead of “Never…” I say “Always…” or something closer to the definition of that word. I want the person I am talking to remember or to always (say/do/be) something. That is what I really mean.

I have learned and am continuing to learn how much words have power in our thoughts, spoken quietly or aloud to ourselves, and in talking to others (pets included). It is much more pleasing to speak in the affirmative than not. As you may have already noticed that when you are feeling good, you look good, people are attracted to your energy and your smile. You are more persuasive, in a congenial way. People are likely to say yes to you when you are talking affirmatively. It is a better experience overall because it grows into many other areas of our daily life. We begin to think differently, feel differently, speak differently, and act differently. One of the rewards is others see that in us and know it is true and in turn, they are positively responsive to that.

I offer a challenge to you to begin using positive words [more]. Over the course of each day, be consciously aware of what you say. I am not saying nit-pick but pay closer attention. How and what do you feel when you say words or phrases like, “I can’t…,” “That won’t work…” “I don’t like…” “Don’t do that.”? Are you emotionally heightened in a negative way? Are you stressed? Are you dealing with someone or something you find less than desirable at the time of your response? Pay closer attention so you have a prompt when to check in with yourself as you are about to speak. I understand words just flow out of our mouths sometimes and we’re not checking for them, lol.

Today, and this upcoming week, go about your days as you normally would with one exception. Be intentionally aware of your thoughts and feelings and the words you use. If you want to track what you say, try that. At the end of each day, review and find an opportunity to change one way of saying something negative you usually say. The more the merrier but start with one word or phrase you can change to its affirmative and positive version. Keep at it for as long as it takes to automatically say it.

I hope this was a helpful start to discover how words impact our lives. I know even the smallest, minute change is a great one. Leave a comment to let me know what you are discovering or have discovered about the words you choose to say. I am happy to read them. Thank you for your time. See you back here soon! 😊