Be mindful of how you speak to yourself

Words have an impact. There is power in words. Consider times when you were verbally encouraged and how that made you feel. Conversely, recall how you felt when you received demeaning words. Most of us can remember when we boosted someone with our words or caused them emotional pain by unkind ones. The selection of the words themselves as well as the tone of voice and body language used makes a difference in the message.

In his book “The Four Agreements,” Don Miguel Ruiz shares the importance of editing your words. In fact, his first agreement is “Be impeccable with your word.” Ruiz suggests that you commit to being integritous with your words as a starting point for freeing yourself from self-limiting beliefs that may rob you of joy and create needless suffering in your life. But perhaps most interesting is his encouragement to examine how you speak to yourself mentally and verbally.

Your words to yourself can be a blessing or bane. Are you a friend or foe in your inner dialogue? Being mindful in your communication with others starts with your self-talk. In our work, people have revealed to us horrible assessments of themselves. Their recycling of negative words internally causes them immense pain and physical symptoms.

Being able to be kind and compassionate to others starts with you doing the same to yourself. So, practice being quick to select positive words toward yourself. Resist opportunities to berate yourself in your head or in front of others. Make concerted efforts to swiftly forgive yourself for mistakes and move forward.

For The AJC Angela and Dennis Buttimer