"Never talk defeat. Use words like hope, belief, faith, victory."
Self-fulfilling prophecies are no joke. Science tells us we attract that which we put out into the Universe, which includes the words we speak to ourselves and others. Talking and thinking positive is not some new age idea. There is well-documented evidence about the power of positive affirmations and positive self-talk. Essentially, a better outlook on life and treating ourselves better with kind words can create better outcomes for our future. We will it with our words!
Words are so powerful. This is why it is so important to be careful about the words we use every day. The difference between "I can" and "I can't" is what can separate the doers from the non-doers. Sometimes, it is simply a matter of what we tell ourselves. That's why we read about The Little Engine That Could instead of The Little Engine That Couldn't. He told himself he thought he could, so he did. If he would have said, "I don't think I can do this," he would have fallen victim to his own self-fulfilling prophecy. An even better mantra would have been, "I know I can!" That's determination!
We can choose to be our own biggest cheerleaders or our own worst enemies simply by the narrative we keep telling ourselves. The most successful entrepreneurs, athletes and artists build themselves up by convincing themselves they have what it takes. This is especially important when faced with self-doubt. If we are unable to believe in ourselves, we have already made the case for falling short of whatever it is we set out to achieve. By choosing more affirming and positively charged words, we give ourselves a much better chance of succeeding.
What words have you been using lately to describe how your life is going? When it comes to your personal or professional life, are you your own biggest cheerleader or your own worst enemy? Do you think you can or can't? Keep telling yourself that you know you can. Of course we have to put in the effort, but it's those words of encouragement and positivity that help us get it done.
More Wellness!
Positive Psychology: What is Positive Self-Talk? (Incl. Examples)
Very Well Mind: Reduce Stress and Improve Your Life With Positive Self Talk
Healthline: Positive Affirmations: Too Good to Be True?
