WEEKLY WISDOM - WORDS

Words:  the act of speaking or of making verbal communication.

"Sticks and Stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" is a phrase often used growing up. This phrase was as far from the truth as you can get. As I got older, some of the words spoken were still as impactful to my mental and psychological state of being as if just spoken yesterday. These are both positive and negative statements. There were a couple of statements that I can vividly remember saying about me to other people that continued to stay with me- "he is very sensitive”- not in a good way, and "A trade school would be perfect for him”- even though I was president of my senior class, selected as a Boys State Delegate, started one of the most influential and popular school groups, and chosen to participate in a rigorous college prep organization.  Once we speak words, we release them into the atmosphere, and there is no turning back.

Do you recall any statements you heard growing up that were impactful in your life, positive or negative? Who were they spoken by: family members, teachers, church members, and as you age, your employers, friends, colleagues, etc. It is astonishing how much these words stay with you throughout your life. If you meditate for a few minutes, you can probably recall some of those statements poured into you. I can imagine what your mind is thinking right now!

Those who spoke those words over you or into your life may not have known that their tongue embodied the power of life and death. Proverbs 18 is an excellent chapter on the impact of words on us and others. Here are some specific verses that have a significant impact.

Verse 4: Wise words are like deep waters; wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook.

Verse 7: The mouths of fools are their ruin; they trap themselves with their lips.

Verse 13: Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish.

Verse 20: Wise words satisfy like a good meal; the right words bring satisfaction.

Verse 21: The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.

As a leader, understand that your words can cast vision, connect the mission, create the strategy, communicate the objectives, and affirm your team. For instance, when casting a vision, use words that paint a clear and compelling picture of the future. When affirming your team, use words that acknowledge their efforts and encourage their potential. If done intentionally and consistently, you will have the power to inspire your family, friends, or any team to conquer any challenge.

A high level of emotional intelligence is necessary when exercising your words. Being able to assess the situation and your audience requires you to be intellectually and emotionally astute. When you provide constructive feedback, it does not mean that you skirt the truth, but how you present the truth can still be life-giving for those to whom you must provide the information. When you finish the conversation, does the person or audience still walk away understanding their connection to the vision and mission and that they still have value?

I have a good friend and a fantastic trainer who states, "Words create worlds." As a leader you have the power to create culture with your words. Are others excited about being a part of the culture or the world you are creating? Are you "All In" with the culture you are creating through your words?

Speak your words carefully to give life in every aspect of your life and others! I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the words you use in your personal and professional life. Are they life-giving or do they bring death? How can you use your words to inspire and affirm those around you?

(EMPOWER)

 Exercise Your Power this week-

1.       Read the entire Proverbs Chapter 18 to get a better understanding of the impact of your words.

2.       Recall the most powerful words you have spoken to your team or colleagues and the impact it made on them.

3.       Connect with your family this week and inspire, encourage, and motivate them with your words.