Word choice, tone, inflection. All can tell others where you are from. They can also tell others where you are coming from. Language can make it clear to others and ourselves, (if we are listening), whether our life perspective is one of noxious negativity or one of Pathological Positivity. Paying attention to how we speak helps us respond to life’s surprises in a healthier and more productive way.
Tiffany Peterson, my friend and colleague, reminded me recently in a YouTube episode that what we say is not always directed outside of ourselves, but the person we talk to the most everyday is probably yourself. After all, we are with ourselves 24/7.
Self-doubt and fears will creep in, just as weeds will always grow in a garden. Tiffany gives us some hints to close the loop faster and get thinking positively. Her first hint is to, “Be Kind to Yourself.” She suggests a face-to-face at the mirror and give yourself some positive affirmations. Be kind, as kind as you would to a 4-year old who tells you he or she is scared. Nurture yourself just as you would nurture them.
Speaking more positively and constructively has an immediate and positive effect on our lives and the lives of others. We feel more encouraged, more productive, more optimistic. We spiral upward.
Watch the video with Tiffany here to find other great suggestions on how to overcome fear and self-doubt. Don’t wait for discontent to creep in to get the tools in your kit. Be prepared to close the loop on negativity, and Change Your Language, Change Your Life.
“Kind words not only lift our spirits in the moment they are given, but they can linger with us over the years.”
~Joseph B. Wirthlin