This past week, while listening to Pandora, I heard a song I hadn’t heard or paid much attention to.
It immediately caught my attention.
The song is called “Words” by Donald Lawrence.
Words LIVE · Donald Lawrence presents Music & Arts Global featuring Blanche
The song “Words” by Donald Lawrence. – Search
I am often reminded of the word’s others speak to me.
I’m also aware that words have power.
Many of us grew up learning the traditional nursery rhyme: “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.”
Often, I hear people create a self-fulfilling prophecy with their words.
Self-Fulfilling Prophecy In Psychology: Definition & Examples
As someone who has studied psychology, especially Self-Efficacy as taught by Albert Bandura, I’m humbled to understand the power of words and their effects.
Self-Efficacy: Bandura’s Theory Of Motivation In Psychology
How we speak to ourselves matters.
If we say we can’t do it then we can’t do it.
Why does how we speak to ourselves matter?
What self-talk are you using to sabotage your life?
Self-Talk: How You Do It Matters a Lot | Psychology Today
Our words also tie us to our character, who we are.
Character is an important part of who we are. It shapes our actions, thoughts, and how we treat others.
Therefore, when we use our words out loud, our character is on display for all to see.
The Psychological Power of Words | Psychology Today
Today, I challenge you to reflect on the words you use in your conversations and in your inner voice through self-talk.
What are you saying that helps or hurts you in becoming the best version of yourself?
I leave you with four quotes about words, and maybe one will resonate with you more than the others.
“With the right words, you can change the world.” ~Walt Whitman
“Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” ~Mother Teresa
“Words matter. They can define who you are and who you can become.”~ Brené Brown
“The words you speak become the life you live.” `~ Lisa Bevere
Curtis, thank you!!
Have a blessed day!!
Diane,
My Pleasure!
McKinley
I know a lot of people who are dismissive of the harm words can inflict; they will say you just get over it or admonish you for not forgetting about it. But, I challenge them whether they would tell someone who once had a broken hip to not limp? Emotional breaks are just as real as physical ones.
Dr. Walker,
Powerful insights! You and I know our words have power. If they are dismissive, steer clear. I agree: “Emotional breaks are just as real as physical ones.”
McKinley
two thumbs
Jerome,
Thank you!
CM
McKinley
The quote that resonated with me the most was by Brene’ Brown: “Words matter. They can define who you are and who you can become.” Rather than succumbing to assumptions others make about us, we can choose the meaning, perspective, and narrative we want to communicate about our own lives.
Sam,
Thank you for letting me know that Brené Brown quote resonated with you the most. I appreciate your feedback today.
McKinley
Thanks CM for sharing this. It’s a powerful reminder that our words can shape how we see ourselves, how we treat others, and how we approach life.
I especially appreciate the connection between self-talk and character. What we repeatedly tell ourselves can influence what we believe is possible. We may not control what others say to us, but we can be intentional about the words we choose to believe and speak over our lives.
Sometimes, the right song really does find us at the right time.
Peace my Brother.
Dr. Lovejoy,
What you wrote is so true. Especially how we see ourselves, how we treat others, and how we approach life.
CM