The Life Changing Power Of Words

Do you want to know how to change your life or do you prefer to bury your head in the sand? It does matter what you say! Words can destroy or build you up. They can encourage you to do something or make you feel that it is hopeless. We all know this really. It doesn't feel good when someone says something negative. I guess this could include gossip, lies, derogatory remarks, negative criticism, judging, angry outbursts and bad language even. How many of us have been thwarted in an exciting plan we had to do something positive, radical and- ok, maybe a little crazy, only to have our enthusiasm and courage crushed by remarks such as "that will never work" or "you can't do that!" Even in the media all around us, we see and hear things that seem out of our world and impossible to reach and when we look at our own lives in comparison, are left feeling inadequate. It is easier to see a cup half empty rather than half full. Somehow, by complaining and feeling sorry for ourselves we can feel that it will resolve the situation or at least make us feel better, but it rarely does.

Positive words on the other hand can ignite the best in us and give us the strength to do what is right. Just knowing that someone believes in us can help us to step out and not to feel alone. Sometimes of course, actions can speak louder than words, but that should never be an excuse to avoid speaking out. Yes- sometimes we need to speak out for a good cause or on the behalf of those who cannot speak for themselves. Words should be on our tongues, not somewhere at the back of our brains, residing in the dust of long lost thoughts. As G.B. Stern said, "Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone". Taking people for granted is often felt by them when we stop speaking out positive words. These words are life and our daily bread. It's a known fact that children develop naturally through positive reinforcement, often negating their need for negative behaviour.

Every day we are presented with choices where we can respond either with negative or positive words. Words that give us hope or a reason to give up. It's up to us. It really can make a difference!