Language is such a special gift–each word and sentence can have different nuances, different meanings depending on who expresses them and their cultural context.  How easily we forget that each word can be received as a gift or as a punch.  Plus, as my friend Barbara Cave Henricks reminds me, “critics lurk at every door” and will look at our words with different eyes than we expected. (And Barbara should know, because she is in the publishing business–a fantastic writer herself, as well as a discriminating reader!)

 So you say something, thinking it has a particular meaning, but when you offer it up to the  world, you get surprised that the critics, lurking, take it to be something that was not what you meant.  What can you do now? What are your choices?

First, we talked about not to take things personally.  That’s a good start.  Second, consider whether your language needs refining.  Third, figure out how your words can affect others and even yourself.  If you stop to think about your words, you will find that they can pack a punch–more than you thought possible.  Become aware of your structures of interpretation and your use of language.

Want to explore more how to do just that? Hire a coach!

Life is Amazing! Live Well,

Anna

www.lifeinbalancecoach.com