What I learned this January
The most important lesson I learned this month: Be Careful Of Your Words
Words are such a powerful tool that we have. We can use our words to uplift or destroy those we come in contact with. This January, I was reminded that it is important that I choose and use my words wisely. My words have a lasting effect on the people that I care about. When a student writes you a note telling you how much what you have said has changed their life you can’t help but feel joy. Or when your student tells you a corny joke, you can’t help but smile. The words that are spoken to you matters!
There have been many times that I have regretted something that has left my mouth. Wished I never responded angrily to a complaint. Wished I never responded to a negative comment. Wished I ignored the desire to make a witty comment. On numerous occasions, I have replayed the words I have spoken and wished that I said something differently. This month I tried some practical step to keep me regretting my words.
First, I started to think before I spoke anything. I thought to myself:
a. What’s my motive for what I’m saying?
b. How're my words going to affect someone else?
This helped me to be more intentional with my words and kept me out of some trouble. I have not mastered this process but I am making a conscious effort to be more careful with my words
a. What’s my motive for what I’m saying?
b. How're my words going to affect someone else?
This helped me to be more intentional with my words and kept me out of some trouble. I have not mastered this process but I am making a conscious effort to be more careful with my words
Second, I waited before I spoke. This sounds very similar to the first step but that’s because once a word leaves your mouth it's lasting effects can be felt for a long time. Therefore, take another moment to think about what you are going to speak and wait. During that waiting time replace the condescending or sarcastic words with clear, concise, and courteous words that will get your point across in an effective manner.
Thirdly, before I spoke, I listened. Sometimes we miss the point others are making when we are listening to respond. When we take time to listen we can help to diffuse conflicts and open up new lines of communication. Active listening is one of the most important skills that a teacher or career driven person can have.
Take all the steps you can to stop yourself from releasing words that may cause emotional damage.
Let’s take the pledge: I will use my words only to uplift.
Let’s take the pledge: I will use my words only to uplift.
