Change Your Words, Change your Life (Scripture and Science Agree)

Words have power.  Words we speak to our self shape the quality of our life. How do you speak to yourself? Is your self-talk kind and affirming? Or is it critical and condescending? Both scripture and science document the power of our words. An ancient proverb written by one of the wisest kings say our words can either build us up and be a tree of life or crush us!

“A soothing tongue [speaking words that build up and encourage] is a tree of life, But a perverse tongue[speaking words that overwhelm and depress] crushes the spirit.”- Proverbs 15:4

The same king goes on to say the power of life and death is in the tongue and we eat the fruit produced by our words. (Proverbs 18:21) Science confirms this.  Groundbreaking research by Psychologist Ethan Kross shows that the way  people engage in self talk  plays a huge role on the success they enjoy in life. Changing the way we address our self from first person to third, for example, activates different parts of our brain. This change moves us from a more charged emotional state to one of greater self-control and competence.

Here are 5 hacks to upgrade your self talk and add more enjoyment and success to you life:

1. Change from using “I” to Your Name –

This simple self talk “hack” produces a significant shift!  When Psychologist Ethan Kross analyzed the pronouns people used when talking to themselves he found:

• Individuals who used “I” in their internal monologue would say more fear based statements like, “Oh, my god, how am I going do this?”
• Those who replaced “I” with their name were more rational and encouraging. Their internal monologue went more like, “Sally, you can do this. You’ve given a ton of speeches before.”

Using our name seems to create a bit of distance and allows us to be shift from highly charged emotional responses to more rational ones.

2.  Remove the word “try” from your vocabulary

The great philosopher Yoda from Star Wars had it correct when he said,

“Do or Do not.  There is no try”. – Yoda

We often use the words, “I’ll try” to give us an out on something we have no intention of doing. In the end this depletes our emotional power.  Don Miguel Ruiz states a powerful truth in his life-changing book, The 4 Agreements:

“Be Impeccable With Your Word. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean.”– Don Miguel Ruiz

If you have no intention of doing something, then speak that truth.  If you desire to complete something, then declare it.  Then don’t try to do it.  Just do it.

3.  Avoid the word “should”

The word “should” implies an external focus about why you are doing what you are doing. It is a more passive approach to life.  We take back our power when we operate from an internal locus of control. Use the power of declarations. Replace phrases that include the word “should” with phrases that imply choice and gratitude. Some examples are   “get to” or “have the privilege of “. These words show greater intention and have more power.

4.  Remove the words, “too busy”

Replace the limiting word “busy” with more empowering words. Use words such as  “productive”, “full” or “successful” . These words energize and empower. Using the word “busy” is often an excuse for procrastination. Learn powerful ways to overcome procrastination here or visit ( http://bit.ly/ProcrastinationHacks.)

We all have the same 24 hours whether we are the President or a single mother.  The shift is simple one of perspective; how we view the 24 hours. A mindset of lack (lack of time, money, etc.) results in frustration and feeling stuck. Referring to our time fruitful and rewarding produces results without the sense of chaos.

5.  Add the word, “Yet”

I AM are the most powerful words in the universe.  When Moses asked God who he should say sent him God said to tell then “I AM” sent him.  The words, “I AM” describe God in us!  What you put after them then is of utmost importance.

Another powerful hack is to diffuse the words, “I can’t” by adding the word “yet”. For example, change statements such as “I can’t speak French” to “I can’t speak French yet”. Replace “I can’t seem to lose weight” to “I haven’t lost weight yet”. This simple word transforms your self talk from something you cannot do to something you aspire to do.

Your brain understands the difference between a hopeless statement and one filled with possibility!  It IS possible to accomplish at a future time.

Upgrading your self talk produces big dividends. Begin to become conscious of your internal dialogue.  Determine to be kinder, gentler and more loving to yourself. Take time each morning to reprogram your brain speaking positive affirmations. For more information on how to have a powerful morning routine read here  Use the name of God, “I AM” to declare, affirm and remind yourself of the fact that greatness lives in you!

Brenda Byers is a highly sought out speaker, coach and is Founder of Prosper in All Things, Her vision and knowledge in the fields of wellness, marketing and motivation have attracted leaders in medicine, sports and business.  She believes God is the business partner of choice, and reveals cutting edge science behind biblical truths that will set you free and set your business, health and relationships soaring. She hosts cutting-edge sales, health and marketing events and workshops and online events including the popular Motivate Me Monday a powerful call held each Monday morning 7:30 am. Learn more here.  Her unique and practical approach has a proven track record of getting results. Ready for a powerful shift? Schedule a FREE breakthrough strategy and shift session.  Email Brenda@prosperinallthings.com subject:  Ready for breakthrough!