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One of the keys discussed in my Orchestrating Attitude webinar is to speak with strength. The words we use are more powerful than we can imagine. There is power in the words that we use, the things that we say, and the things that we do. Most people greet each other with words that have no power or energy. Think of the last time you heard someone else (or even yourself) respond to a greeting of “How are you?” with “Oh, I am doing so-so,” “Hanging in there,” “I’m surviving” or “Not too bad.” It probably wasn’t much past yesterday.
Try this – use words to change your situation, not to describe it. The next time anyone asks, “How are you?” whether it’s someone at work or a cashier at the store, respond with strength. Give them an energetic, enthusiastic, “Great!” or “Terrific!” It will be hard to do without a smile on your face, and you are likely to get one back. Second, you will likely feel a physical response of increased energy. Third, your words will send a message to your mind that will be consistent with feeling Great! or Terrific! To see the results, you have to do this often and with sincere enthusiasm (not robotically). When you do, your subconscious mind will begin to act on what you are saying and begin to design your reality to be consistent with your thoughts and words.
My little green friend, Yoda from Star Wars, understood this when he commanded Luke Skywalker, “Do or do not. There is no try.”
Speaking with strength also creates a sense of accountability and commitment to get the best from yourself and others. Your challenge is to consciously avoid using words that are strength killers. These words sap energy and commitment from your interactions, and ultimately, your actions. Eliminate these words from your vocabulary:
- I can’t
- If
- Doubt
- Try
- I don’t think
- I don’t have the time
- Maybe
- I’m afraid of
- I don’t believe
- It’s impossible.
But omitting these negative words is not enough. A sports team needs more than just a good defense to win; it also needs a strong offense. So, you must also mobilize your own offensive assault with the words you choose. Build positive mental connections, personal strength and commitment by using these strength builders:
- I can
- I will
- Expect the best
- Commit
- I know
- I will make the time
- Positively
- I am confident
- I do believe
- All things are possible.
The power of your actions is preceded by the power of your words. Choose to speak with strength and watch the power of your words bring out the best in yourself and others!
See how well you speak with strength by taking the Free Attitude Tune-up.
Copyright © 2006-2008 by Lee J. Colan and The L Group, Inc.