The Power of Words

Let me start out by stating that English is not my first language. I actually did not learn to speak or fully understand English until I was in second grade.  By not knowing the right words I often felt the sting of being mocked when I could not express myself in a way that others could understand.  Communication became a critical priority for me.  Recognizing the reaction and emotions that words can cause has made me a lifelong lover of words.  Imagine my excitement when I discovered that “Powerful and Phenomenal Words” exist!

What is a power word? In browsing the internet you will find that there are several definitions and an extensive list of power words. Power words can be positive or negative. According to Quora power words/powerful words “empower people to communicate at a higher level with greater clarity…” In coaching we often refer to “phenomenal words” and encourage clients to use these.  These types of words are different from powerful words in that they are all positive words used with the intent to encourage, motivate, inspire, and create energy for the person(s) who uses the words. These words can also ignite the same feelings in those to whom the words are directed. Here is a list of phenomenal words:

• Create

• Focus

• Empower/empowering

• Enlighten

• Balance

• Brilliant

• Expand

• Experience

• Imagine

• Calm

• Peaceful

• Visualize

• Aware

• Naturally

• Opportunity

There are more words in this list, but you get the idea. These are words that can open up our mind and create opportunities where we remain alert to the possibilities. These are words that do not shut us or others down but give permission to expand what we are capable of doing. As a leader using these words in support, encouragement, or acknowledgement of someone’s capabilities can create synergy and trust. No need to use these words sparingly and do use them often. Consider observing the type of response and results you get when you use these words for yourself and when communicating with others. Create a list of phenomenal words that you implement into your day to day communications. Add your own phenomenal words to this list and see what transforms!

In contrast to phenomenal words, try to stay away from “poison words”. These are words such as: Don’t, might, always, should, can’t, but…….think of how you can use better words to replace these.