Have you ever stopped to think about the power of words? Just think about how many different ways words can be used to influence and affect people. Words can be used to build someone up or tear them down, to make them feel happy or sad, confident or ashamed. The list goes on and on. In this blog post, we will discuss the power of words and why what you say matters. We'll also look at some examples of how powerful words can be in influencing people's actions.
Words are one of the most powerful tools that we have at our disposal. They can be used to influence people in a positive or negative way. And it's not just the words themselves that matter, but also how they are used. The tone and inflection of your voice, the facial expressions you make, and even your body language all play a role in how your words are interpreted.
Even in the seemingly insignificant moments, your words matter, and you never know the impact your words can have. Recently, a former student who I taught about eight years ago, sent a message to apologise for making life hard for me in lessons. He said that I had told him that I expected a proper apology one day and he had always remembered that. Now I have that apology.
So, I want to encourage you that your words and actions don't go unnoticed. He thanked me for helping him despite his adolescent silliness. You may not see fruit right now and you may be feeling discouraged or stuck, not knowing what to do to improve your situation. However, I want you to know that the seed that you plant with your words may stick with someone for years.
Words can be used in a positive way to influence people. For example, if you're trying to encourage someone to do something, your words can play a big role in whether or not they take action. The same is true if you're trying to build someone's confidence or help them through a tough situation. In these cases, your words can be a powerful tool to help someone in need. Earlier this year I gathered a group of women together to share their words in a book to give teens hope (Letters to my Teenage Self) and you have the tools to share your stories too.
There is also a warning in here to think about what you say and what you do, because words stick. Have you ever said something that you didn't mean, only to have it come out wrong and cause hurt feelings? Or maybe you've been on the receiving end of someone else's words, where they said something that made you feel bad about yourself. We've all experienced this at one time or another. And it's a prime example of how words can be misused and cause harm.
When you take the time to think about what you're going to say before you say it, you can avoid these types of situations. Sometimes the words said can be internalised to form our inner critic. Think about how your words will be received and interpreted by the other person. If you're not sure, it's always better to err on the side of caution and not say anything at all.
Your voice has power or power to uplift and encourage or to destroy. Choose wisely how you use your words today. What are some examples of how you've seen the power of words at work? Share your stories in the comments below!
