Empowering Language

Over the weekend I was thinking about a class I took years ago where I learned about the concept that our language creates our reality – the idea that the words we choose matter… a lot.  They can empower or disempower us, whether we are speaking them silently to ourselves or out loud to others.

Since that time, I’ve been able to observe the way that people use their words.  Generally, if I listen to someone speak for a while, I get a pretty clear picture of whether they see themselves as a proactive participant in creating their life, or they see themselves as a victim of external pressures.

The really exciting part of all this is, by changing our language, we can actually make changes in how our brain functions and create a different kind of life experience.  By using proactive, empowering language we can change our reality. How cool is that?

I often hear people say they “have to” do this or they “should” do that.  According to who?  Words like this create internal pressure that doesn’t support us in having a truly enjoyable life experience.  More empowering language is, “I choose to…” or “I’m going to…” do whatever it is. Then act or put it in your schedule. Or, if more appropriate, “I choose not to…” do whatever it is. Be honest about it, accept the consequences (if there are any) and move on, recognizing that it is, indeed, your choice.

The more we use empowering language, the more we come to know ourselves on a deeper level.  We are better able to connect to our inner knowing, and make decisions that align with who we are. We can also communicate more authentically with those around us.

This week, if you hear yourself saying,  “I should…” or “I have to…,” take a moment to pause and ask yourself what you “choose” to do.  It might be that you choose to take that action. It might be that you choose not to take that action.  Either way, the more you practice honoring your choices, the more you are able to live a life that is truly yours. You will find that living this way is more energizing and less stressful – and way more fun!

Wishing you a week filled with choices that are right for you –

Cheri