We all know the how important words can be. When you say something either negative or positive that can pierce someone to the core. Either to inspire them or to hurt them. It is the same in the written word. There is so much damage that has been done just from rumors in newspapers and articles. We as a population feel the meaning and intent behind everything that others say and write. However, I think it’s very common for us to feel like there is no power behind the words that we say. However, our words have just as much of an effect on others as their words do on us. Actually, our words and thoughts very much effect our own wellbeing and mental health.
Most of the time, we use our thoughts and words to negatively pick ourselves apart. We criticize our mistakes and failures. I know you have all had those moments where you just berate yourself over something trivial. I know in the moment it feels like it’s a mountain. We all have those struggles in our everyday moments. It’s the common narrative. So, why don’t we change the narrative?
Make your words become an asset
Instead of pointing out everything that is wrong, find the things that are right. I don’t know if you are like me. Whenever I’m feeling especially down, and someone tells me to find the silver lining, I want to growl at them. Truth is, the things that we want to hear the least, are probably the things we need to hear the most. Finding the silver lining is the simplified way of putting it. If you are in a bad situation, finding the positive doesn’t have to be in the situation. It could be how much stronger you will be, what skills you will learn, the true friends you might find, or even just what positivity you can find in yourself.
Write it down
Sometimes, it’s very difficult to keep your thoughts organized and not distracted. For me, this is pretty much all the time. One of the easiest ways for me to get control of my thoughts and focus on the positive is to write it down. You can start by writing down all the best things about yourself, your traits and your qualities, the things you have overcome. Find the inner strength that you have to be able to draw on that strength when you need it later. Then when you have a moment that you are feeling everything is horrible, start writing again. Write down every blessing that you have, and everything that is good in your life. I always tell my son his brain is like a light switch. When we have turned off the switch, our brains aren’t as capable. If you are struggling writing these lists, then take a deep breath and picture yourself turning on your brain. Opening your mind to be able to see the positive side.
Using our words to positively impact ourselves, shows a greater inner strength. Truth is, that some of the articles that I write like this is because it’s something that I have had to work through, or that I’m still working on. Sometimes I wonder if people will read it and wonder what in the world I’m talking about. Maybe I’m the only one who’s had to work through things like this. Even if I am, I find it helpful to write these things down as well. To document it and remind myself how far I’ve come and to help when I do have a trying moment. Comment and tell me if you’ve ever felt a similar way. Or is there another thing that you have struggled with instead?