Everyday Words Matter.

We’ve all heard it before probably from our parents, and if you have teens, you’ve definitely shouted it yourself: “Watch your language!”

But this week, I’m talking about more than the occasional f-bomb or sassy comeback. I’m talking about the everyday words we choose to speak to others and more importantly to ourselves. These words are the things that need attention. Everyday words matter.

Language wires the brain. Words shape emotions, which fuel thoughts, which drive more emotion which drives action. If we want to change how we think, feel, and experience life we must address the role that language plays.

Most often the language we adopt has been cultivated based upon a certain degree of mimicry, highlighting the old addage of being mindful of the company you keep. Negative language has been shown to have a direct impact on the body, vibrates at a much lower energy level and in itself is naturally not an efficient forward-thinking tool for change. Sometimes simply becoming consciously aware of what we are saying and changing the word can make a huge difference to how we perceive thing.

Here are three simple ways to start.

1) Practice Clean Language

We absorb language from everywhere: family, media, coworkers, comedians, music… and much of it runs on autopilot. The words we use hold energy. Negative words lower our vibration and limit our perspective and choice.

Words like 'but', 'hard' or 'scared' actually limits our ability to problem solve and shuts us right down on gratitude. Here are some examples of how you can begin to bring awareness to your words.

•  But ("I'd like to do that but I have no time"). OR And ("I'd like to do that and perhaps we can find another time)

•  Hard ("This assignment is so hard, I'm exhausted). OR Easy ("This assignment isn't easy and I am going to take a rest")

• Scared ("I'm scared that I might lose my job"). OR Curious ("I'm curious about new job opportunities.")

2) Practice How You Want to Feel

We all have perfected a negative emotion. But what if we practiced the good ones—peace, love, freedom, joy? You don’t even have to feel them at first. Just imagine what they’d feel like. Picture it. Say the words. Let your brain start wiring those emotions into your body. Each morning, choose one feeling and focus on it throughout your day. That’s how you teach your system to expect good things. Energy flows where the attention goes.

3) Practice Discipline

Discipline is self-respect. It’s the gentle structure that allows real transformation. Changing your language is a daily choice and it’s one of the fastest ways to shift your state.

If you want to be a positive person, decide to be just that. And practice.

Now You! Pick one negative word or phrase you use often. Find a more empowering version and practice saying it differently. Tell a friend. Try it with your kids. Watch what happens.