Word Power

The Language of Success: How Your Words Build Your World

Have you ever stopped to consider that your thoughts don’t just describe your life but instead they actually script it?

The concept that words create reality (your thoughts are words you speak to yourself) is rooted in both ancient philosophy and modern science. Our brains are wired to find evidence for the things we tell ourselves. When we speak, we aren't just making noise, we are actually issuing commands to our subconscious mind.

If you tell yourself you are struggling or upset, your brain looks for more struggle and things to be upset about. If you tell yourself you are continuously learning and getting better, your brain looks for those opportunities.

The Vocabulary of Creation

To change your reality, you must be aware of your inventory of words. Small shifts in your vocabulary can lead to massive shifts in your emotional state and your results.

Words to Exclude

• Try: As Yoda famously said, "Do or do not, there is no try." Try gives you a mental back door to fail.

• Can’t: This word shuts down the problem-solving part of your brain instantly.

• Should: This carries the weight of guilt and external pressure. It implies you are lacking.

• Problem: This creates a sense of heaviness and obstruction.

Words to Include

• Will: This is a word of intent and certainty. It moves you from a wish to a plan.

• How: Instead of saying I can't, ask How can I? This forces your brain to seek solutions.

• Challenge: Replaces problem. A challenge is something you can overcome or win.

• Yet: The most powerful word for growth. "I don't know how to do this... yet."

• Expect: Expect good things and you shall receive

Lessons from the Greats: Success Through Mantras

Well-known figures throughout history have used specific, repetitive linguistic formulas often called mantras or affirmations in order to bridge the gap between their current reality and their dreams.

Muhammad Ali would say I am the greatest and he said this long before he believed it or had the titles to prove it. He used the words to build the internal confidence necessary to dominate the ring.

Jim Carrey would repeat interesting things are happening to me. While broke, Carrey wrote himself a check for $10M for acting services rendered and repeated that he was a world-class actor. He manifested the amount within years.

Oprah Winfrey saidto herself I am responsible for my own life. Oprah shifted her language from that of a victim of circumstance to that of a creator. By claiming responsibility through her words, she claimed the power to change her path.

Steve Jobs had a famous affirmation that he repeated many times over. Jobs used collective language to reinforce a reality where mpossible products were inevitable, influencing an entire organization to think the same way. His affirmation was: "The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do."

Your Weekly Challenge:

This week, pay close attention to your "I Am" statements. Anything you put after those two words becomes your identity. If you are feeling tired swap out the statement from I am so tired and stressed to I am in the process of managing my energy and finding balance.

Your words are the bricks. Your life is the house. Start building with better materials today.