The Power Of Words- Video

We all know that our thoughts shape our lives- that if we think negatively, we will draw negativity into our lives, but if we think positively, we will draw all that is positive into our lives. But what about words? It's important to know that they too impact our lives.  They not only have the power to shape what happens in our own life, they can also effect others.

The following video illustrates the power of words, and how simply changing a word or a phrase can change our lives.  Originally an award winning short film by Spanish filmmaker Alonso Alvarez Barreda entitled "Historia de un Letrero" (The Story of a Sign), this is an English language homage to the 2008 Cannes Film Festival winner by Andrea Gardner and her Purplefeather online marketing company.  And though the video seems more skewed towards how words can change perception with respect to how others see us and how we present ourselves to the world from a business perspective (she is a content specialist, after all), I think it is also applicable to life in general.  Gardner has also written a book "Change Your Words, Change Your World" which I think I'm going to buy. Amazon says of the book:

With honesty and warmth, Andrea Gardner shares her own ups and downs on her journey to changing her words and her world, and provides the inspiration and tools that you need to find your own true purpose and transform your life to match your dreams. From attracting prosperity and improving your relationships, to finding your true purpose and serving the world, Andrea touches on a wide variety of themes, and helps you laugh at your failings with love, and then pick yourself up and carry on to the wonderful life that you truly deserve. This is a light and entertaining read, but it contains a very powerful message that may very well change your world for good.

I'll let you know what I think. In the meantime, enjoy the video.

Choose Your Words Wisely



I'm not sure people realize how their words can adversely affect others, especially a child. The vulnerable little minds of chilren can be either negatively or positively impacted by what we say to them. Positive words can encourage and help children thrive into adulthood. Negative words can sit there for the rest of their lives, influencing and affecting how they see themselves and their world, and ultimately how their life plays out. Some children are strong enough to rise above the onslaught of negative talk, but others will just succumb to it.  Tell a child he's stupid and, more often than not, that's what he becomes. Tell a child he can succeed and, more likely than not, he will.

I grew up during a time when 'reverse pyschology' was de rigeur. It worked for me because I was a willful, stubborn child (and young adult) and I wanted to prove people wrong. I remember my mother used to tell me I would never graduate from college, my university counselor told me the same thing- so to prove them wrong, I graduated from college- with honors. But for some, those words might have  prompted them to just give up.

Build up children by encouraging them, telling them how clever and talented they are, how they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. Tell them how much they are loved and appreciated. You will be doing them a great service.