Using Words Productively – TPW361
Using words productively requires awareness and intentionality, but it absolutely helps us maximize our positive impact on the world around us. In this week's episode, I discuss ways we can use our words productively. Using words productively contributes to a life that matters I’ve been a bookworm since I learned to read, and a writer for almost as long. I’ve always loved words--the sounds, the meanings, the way they can express (or create) feelings or take us into another world or way of thinking. As a lawyer, words are my stock in trade. I use them all day long, speaking and writing, articulating ideas and taking in information. As a podcaster, words are the tools I use to communicate ideas and make connections. I've been thinking a lot these days about the things we say -- to each other and to ourselves, both spoken and written words. Do words matter? Yes. The words we use, whether spoken aloud or only in our thoughts, affect us--our mindset, our perception of the world we live in and the people we meet, our relationships. In a 2013 TED discussion on NPR, “Does Language Bring Us Together or Pull Us Apart?”, biologist Dr. Mark Pagel speaks of the potency of our words using a memorable phrase, explaining that through language we are able to “implant our ideas” into another’s mind. Language provides the rails on which thoughts ride. The words we use — and how we use them — matter immensely because they shape the way we perceive the world and participate within it.” [from How Much Do Our Words Matter?] "Words are free. It's how you use them that may cost you." ~ KushandWizdom 1. Think before speaking "Be mindful when it comes to your words. A string of some that don't mean much to you may stick with someone else for a lifetime." ~ Rachel Wolchin. Watching our words is one of the ways we can maximize our positive impact on others and the world around us--by thinking before we speak. The words we say thoughtlessly may not mean much to us but they can have a huge impact on others. Before responding to a person or situation, question your assumptions. If we stop and think about our assumptions, it may change the words we choose to use-- assumptions about others (their motivations, their capabilities), about yourself (your abilities or motivations), or your circumstances. Part of the Work that Byron Katie teaches is about taking a thought (which is just words, right?) and running it through some questions: * Is it true? * Can I absolutely know it’s true? (Can it be proven in a court of law?) * How do I react when I believe it? * Who would I be without that thought? Pay attention to the tone of your words to others and to yourself. 2. Train your mind Words are what our minds use to create thoughts. Our thoughts create our emotions, which drive our actions, which produce our results. Thoughts are words; choose them intentionally. Thinking and saying things as simple as I get to vs. I have to can make a big difference. It's a subtle change in words and mindset and we can choose which one we want to have. If you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right. We can change the way our minds use words by persistent, intentional practice. Last week's guest,