The Power of Words

I feel that a lot of people underestimate the power of words. You only need to listen to people talk to realise how true that statement is. If I say, “my life sucks”, often enough, I will eventually believe those words – even if my life does not “suck”.

In the movie, The Dark Tower, the arch-enemy, the Man in Black, mostly uses words as a weapon.
I recall a scene where he is in a bar, sitting on a table, talking to two people that are getting along quite well. But once he is done talking to them, he stands up and says, “now kill, each other.” Immediately the two people start fighting each other to the death.

I recall a story of a guy (let us call him John), who while making a cup of tea in the kitchen at his workplace, was approached by a colleague. The colleague asked John if he was feeling okay as he (John) didn’t look well. John quickly responded by saying that he was feeling great. Another person walked into the kitchen and made a comment that John didn’t look well. John was still convinced that he was fine. When a third person made similar comments about John, John started thinking that maybe he might not be well. This went on until John responded to the sixth person, “You are right, I do not feel well. I need to go see a Doctor.”

Whether this is a true story or not, it illustrates the power of words on us. Words can literally make or break a person’s spirit. I personally use positive and encouraging words to change how I feel – even to make myself feel better, when I am feeling sick.

If you interact with children, try giving them words of encouragement before a football game or a school play, and notice the effect those words have. Or try motivating a colleague or business co-founder just before an important presentation to a client. The power of your words is unmistakable.

You might not realise it, but I encourage you to watch what you say. Whether it is words you speak to yourself or other people, consider the power your words have. The power is in your tongue.