Words Matter: A Leadership Lesson in Choosing Carefully

As leaders, one of the most critical yet often overlooked skills is the power of our words. It's easy to forget how impactful our language can be, especially in high-pressure or emotionally charged moments. An experience from years ago taught me a lasting lesson on the weight of words and their ability to create ripple effects - intended or not.

During the rollout of the anthrax vaccine for military personnel, I was tasked with taking five doses. The process was daunting, and like many others, I had my concerns. I recall casually expressing my frustrations to a senior leader, painting the situation in a more emotional way than factual. What I didn't realize was that this leader was already on edge about the issue. Though my words were offhand and unintentional, they sent her spiraling into a series of misguided actions and unnecessary concerns. This experience reminded me that our words hold immense power as leaders to influence, motivate, and shape actions - for better or worse.

Now, more than ever, words matter. In our fast-paced, social media-driven world, it is critical that leaders choose their words wisely. Rapid conclusions can be drawn from the way information is consumed today, and if we aren't mindful, our words can set off a chain reaction that's hard to control. As Rachel Wolchin said, "Be mindful when it comes to your words. A string of some that don't mean much to you may stick with someone else forever." This couldn't be truer, particularly in leadership, where words carry the added weight of authority and influence.

I recently witnessed the chaos that can ensue when words are misused. I saw people who were once indifferent become concerned, and I witnessed values being challenged and disrespected - all because of careless language. One tirade of words went so far that the very thing being condemned was acted out in minutes, due to poor communication and unchecked rhetoric. This stark reminder underscores the need for leaders to be extremely careful with what they say, how they say it, and how it will be interpreted.

The age-old adage "think before you speak" is more relevant now than ever. Words can set a new culture, break someone down, or even tear apart an organization. Gossip, embellishment, and unverified assumptions can erode trust faster than most leaders realize. As a leader, you must clear up any assumptions, check your biases, and slow down before speaking to ensure you convey an honest, clear, and thoughtful message.

Here are a few key lessons I've learned about the power of words in leadership:

1. Assumptions Are Dangerous: Assumptions are rarely 100% correct and can lead to misunderstandings. As a leader, you must clear up any assumptions before you speak.
2. Bias Needs to Be Checked: Everyone has biases, but being aware of them and actively working to overcome them is essential in leadership. Bias can cloud your judgment and distort the message you want to convey.
3. Slow Down: Speaking too quickly in high-emotion or high-pressure moments is easy. Slowing down allows you to choose your words carefully, ensuring you communicate an honest, clear, and thoughtful message.
4. Don't Embellish: Leaders who embellish stories or stretch the truth risk losing credibility. In leadership, authenticity is everything.
5. Due Diligence Is a Mandate: Good leaders do their due diligence, whether it's vetting information sources or double-checking facts before speaking. This extra effort goes a long way in building trust and maintaining credibility.

Words can shape perceptions, drive decisions, and inspire actions. As leaders, we must take responsibility for our words, ensuring they are rooted in truth, free from bias, and designed to uplift rather than tear down. We must always be accurate, honest, and intentional in our communication because words, once spoken, cannot be taken back. They matter now more than ever.

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