The Power of Words
I recently observed a group of people who were working through a very difficult situation. The room was tense with different views and strong opinions on how to move forward. I watched as the group began discussing what should be done. What struck me the most was not whose opinion was right or wrong, but how those opinions were being shared. One individual spoke with defensiveness and anger and immediately the tenseness in the group rose. Listening to one another became harder with little or no progress being made.
Finally, another spoke words that encouraged the group to come together in order to move forward. This person acknowledged that there would not be complete agreement around the issue but that there could be mutual respect and thus a path forward. The mood in the room changed again, this time to a more collaborative environment. The problem is not solved, but the group is committed to keep talking and to ultimately finding a way to improve the situation.
We underestimate the power of words in our relationships. Words can ignite a fire that destroys or build one that brings warmth and comfort. Our words have the power to hurt or encourage those we care about the most. Understanding the power of words is essential to a healthy and growing relationship.
Take a minute and check out our latest podcast episode, The Power of Words. It offers a short but extremely relevant conversation around this important topic that effects all of us.
Listen on Apple | Listen on Spotify | Watch on YouTube
When we choose to control our words, we will make a difference.
Larry
PS – Don’t miss my ‘dad-joke’ for this episode at the end of the podcast!
