Learn the language of leadership with this simple, but powerful shift.

280 words, 2 minutes reading time.

Great leaders use proactive language like "I can", "I choose to", "I get to", "I can figure this out". These are more powerful than reactive words such as "I can't", "It's not my fault"," It's always been done this way". In fact, proactive language is the language of leadership.?

Why using proactive language matters:

Negative reactive language affects our brain by releasing stress producing hormones and affects our mood, thinking and communication negatively. Ultimately it affects how we see ourselves and how others see us. It makes us feel powerless.

When we change the words, we use by using proactive language our brain neurochemistry is altered and we feel powerful.?

It's like power posing, but for our brain.?

Go Deeper: Here are 3 tips to use proactive language:

1. First, recognize the difference between proactive & reactive language.

REACTIVE LANGUAGE

I can't.

I won't.

It's always been done this way.

There is nothing else we can do.

PROACTIVE LANGUAGE

I can

I choose to

I can figure out a way

There must be something we can do.

2. Next, observe yourself for a day. Note and analyze the words that you use. Are they proactive or reactive?

3. Finally commit to a conscious shift: Start replacing reactive words with proactive words. One of the simple things to do is to change your approach to your To-do list. Change the "I have to do this" to I get to, or I choose to do this"?

Go even deeper:?

If you find yourself using reactive language consistently, examine your beliefs about the situation.?

• Where do you feel powerless and why??
• What is one tiny aspect of the situation that you can control?
• Take action in that direction.?

#Everdayleadership?is about taking action to be a great leader every day! Try using proactive language for a week & let me know how it went.

References:

The 7 Habits of highly effective people- Stephen R Covey.

The Neuroscience behind words:?https://brm.institute/neuroscience-behind-words/