The Power of Language

It’s amazing how simple it can be to think, feel and be more positive!

Words have power so choose them wisely!

Evidence Base

There is so much research, evidence, and innumerable studies in the field of positive psychology that is it too difficult to pick out and reference just a few of them. It is a research area that has absolutely boomed since Martin Seligman threw down the challenge to the world of psychologists to look at how to promote positivity rather than simply stage interventions once situations were out of control.

Martin Seligman is recognised as the founder of Positive Psychology in the late 90s. Positive Psychology is the scientific study of human flourishing and an applied approach to optimal functioning. Many of the concepts and activities contained within The POSITIVE Lawyer draw on the field of positive psychology and associated research.

So, are you ready to make a conscious choice to think, live and work more positively? This has never been more critical for lawyers and the perfect time to get started is NOW!

The impact of negative words

So, let’s look at language and how it generates positive or negative states of mind.

Lawyers have highly developed language skills as the right or wrong expression chosen in the field of law can have major consequences. Although, how does language impact on their mental and physical wellbeing?

Negative words impact the way our brains work, they generate negative energy and attract negative outcomes. So, it’s unfortunate that some people, and even some professions, seem to be hardwired to think and express everything in negative ways.

It can be a reflex reaction and a way to let off steam or cope with frustration. It can also sabotage mindset, reduce potential, and erode happiness.

Research shows that negative words and attitudes affect our wellbeing by increased levels of stress hormones and anxiety that lead to a diminished ability to think, reason, and form memories.

“Flash the word “NO” for less than one second, you’d see a sudden release of dozens of stress-producing hormones and neurotransmitters. These chemicals immediately interrupt the normal functioning of your brain, impairing logic, reason, language processing, and communication.

?In fact, just seeing a list of negative words for a few seconds will make a highly anxious or depressed person feel worse, and the more you ruminate on them, the more you can actually damage key structures that regulate your memory, feelings, and emotions.” Dr. Lafont at https://www.vidamind.com.au/the-destructive-power-of-negative-thoughts-and-words

I love this excerpt of a post from Dr. Lafont. Take your time to read it and consider the implications.

The importance of language

For the past 5 years, I’ve been actively working to eliminate and replace negative words from my vocabulary. This was the time that my now best friend introduced me to a book “How to have a bug-free mind” by Andy Shaw and more recently I’ve been seeking out any study I can find on the power of language.

I’ve been consciously editing my spoken and written language and working even harder to remove or reframe negative thoughts…the word BUT still creeps in from time to time. The word JUST has been one of the hardest to remove.

Some words are obviously negative. Others seem neutral or positive, although when you dig a little deeper you realise how sabotaging they can be.

I’ve saved you lots of time by compiling a list of words that have negative or weak connotations. These are the ones that I am actively seeking to remove and replace in my thinking, speaking, and writing.

I’ve also included a list of alternatives that have far more positive intent…

Find out more…

Positive thinking and positive language are covered in detail in Module 1 of The POSITIVE Lawyer program.

Read the FULL article on purpose and meaning here?

Register your interest here?and you’ll get 30% off as a launch offer until the end of February 2022.

Watch the detailed video that covers both the content of each of the 6 modules and the structure and costs of each of the 4 program options. It’s full of good stuff and does take 15 minutes.

OR book a discovery call with Therese Linton here

My aim is to inspire you to transform your working life and achieve great things and I look forward to joining you on your journey!