Words Create Our World
Image by Jonathan Kaufman from Unsplash
Language and Power
Most people have no idea of the power contained in our choice of words.
Words are not just communication tools - they are building blocks that lay the foundation for our life experiences. Words shape our perceptions, guide our actions, message to others who we are, and help determine the trajectory of our lives. Our words wield extraordinary influence over our success and well-being.
Language and the Mind
Psychological and neuroscientific research explains the profound connection between our language, cognition, and how we move through and experience the world. Our words have constant, ongoing influence over the brain’s neural pathways. When we repeatedly use positive language that emphasizes potential and upsides, we strengthen neural circuits associated with optimism and resilience. Negative, limiting speech reinforces patterns of fear, doubt, and stagnation. Subtle positive shifts in phrasing have profound impact on mindset and by extension, on our actions and experiences.
Words = Self-Fulfilling Prophecies
The mind works to align our actions with what we say is so. Negative language and limiting self-talk leads to procrastination, self-sabotage, lost time and lost opportunities. On the flip side, affirming language encourages confidence and proactive behavior. Our words influence our worldview and behavior, and our behaviors reinforce our beliefs.
In addition to the effect choice of words has on our internal world, language impacts our relationships, home-life, health and career. The words we use either builds bridges and ways forward, or erects barriers. While supportive language fosters trust and connection, harsh hyperbolic language can damage relationships and cause resentment.
Your Words, Your Responsibility
To harness the power of language we must become mindful of the words we use with others and mindful of chatter - our own internal self-talk. What to do?
Reframe Negative Statements by replacing limiting phrases with empowering phrases. Replace “I’m terrible with X,” to “I’m working on becoming more confident with X.”
Practice Gratitude: Look for what’s good, what helps and what’s working as you shift your focus from scarcity to abundance.
Use Positive “I Am” Statements: “I am a runner” beats “I try to run.”
Speak with Intent: Choose words that align with your values, and who, what and where you aspire to be. Drop complaining for good, and eliminate gossip, hyperbole, and woe-is-me from the way your speak and frame things.
Be a Force for Warmth and Caring: Listen deeply, acknowledge feelings, and use language that uplifts and creates an atmosphere and mindset that emphasizes potential and opportunity.
Our words are a reflection of our beliefs, attitudes, and intentions. By choosing our words with thought and care, we can more deliberately craft our world. Whether you’re seeking personal growth, professional success, or deeper connection to self and others, your language is a powerful catalyst and tool to move you toward your positive aims. So be a lifter - not a complainer. Notice and comment on what’s good and working. Take responsibility and make your thoughts, words and actions uplifting and empowering. You’ve got this friends. Good luck and let’s go.