Words Carry Energy, Power and Meaning
Words have the power to support and encourage us as we strive for our biggest dreams, and they also have the power to stop us in our tracks before taking the first steps toward all that we want in life. When we’re born and begin learning to navigate the world, we pick up on energy, non-verbal cues and the words that are happening all around us. This is part of our human development and becomes a significant piece of who we are today, as adults. It’s surprising how little focus and awareness there is about the influence of these factors in our lives from such a young age. There is incredible power, meaning and energy in words and how we all use them, with ourselves and toward others.
I recall being told at a young age, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” You might share a similar memory. While there’s some good in that suggestion, it’s important to consider the energy and impact words have and how to become skillful in using them.
Words carry enormous energy because of the meaning we attach to them, which is influenced by who is saying them, the tone in which they’re delivered, and factors we pick up on that aren’t spoken but can be felt. We tend to replay words over and over, imprinting the energy into ourselves, whether negative and depleting or positive and motivating. This has a strong effect on us. We can manage this part of our lives by examining and practicing our skills in using words and how we receive words from others.
One practice I find helpful is using phrases such as “thank you” and “I appreciate,” especially when facing unpleasant words from someone. These phrases are nonjudgmental and non-reactive, which can move the conversation to a better place. For example, if I’m dealing with conflict and I know the conversation isn’t heading in a productive direction, I will take a breath, pause, and say, “Thank you for all that you have shared. I need a break and some time to process.” This is one strategy to leave an unpleasant situation in hope of finding another time and space to revisit when there’s a greater chance of a more productive conversation and outcome.
Lastly, to make a deeper connection with ourselves and others, we must practice using words that feel good and embody gratitude.
Moment of Introspection & Leadership:
The ‘monkey mind’ journal is a concept I heard in a webinar once, and without getting all the details I intuitively knew I needed to apply this type of journaling to my morning routine. The storyteller in our heads often bounces around from one negative thing to the next, creating ‘monkey mind.’ The words I noticed through my awareness practice were hurtful, directed toward my body image, often so mean that the thought of writing them down was very uncomfortable. I realized this practice was more challenging than I ever expected, as it requires total honesty with myself. At first this led to more negative words that made up my negative judgments.
Slowly I began to capture my negative thoughts and replace them with more feel-good words. Over time, I began to notice that the energy I start my day with is lighter and more positive. This practice is a great tool to support you in choosing better-feeling words with yourself and others.
“Words change your world.”
— Judith Glaser
REFLECTIVE & DISCOVERY QUESTIONS FOR THOUGHTS & JOURNALING
What is one compliment someone has given you that made you feel good and that you always remember?
How does journaling support your goals?
FOR YOUR TEAM DAILY HUDDLE
What is the best advice you have received lately?