Words We Use Matter

A significant lesson I learned from being coached was the impact of word choice on my approach to fostering change. My coach skillfully identified the mismatch between my use of the word discipline and my free-spirited personality. By asking how these two concepts aligned, my coach helped me see the discrepancy. Transforming discipline into determination greatly improved how I engage with necessary changes.

Why does this change make such a big difference?

Realizing that the word discipline felt like nails on a chalkboard helped me see how my free-spirited nature was resisting change. For me, discipline inherently carries an "I should," or "I must," mindset. Understanding this inner reaction to "being disciplined" allowed me to expand my perspective and create a new phrase that resonates more with my true self. "Fiery determination" is what sparked excitement in my heart and shifted my mindset towards embracing the change I was seeking.

While I may be free-spirited, I am also highly committed to living in authenticity, integrity, and embracing my individuality. Ethics, higher values, and honoring individuality in myself and others are my greatest compasses. Shifting my self-talk to, "I am determined to develop healthier routines that enhance my ability to strive towards the vision I have set before me," opens up greater possibilities and adds a sense of adventure. Being determined far outweighs being disciplined when aligning my daily activities with my core values of compassionately serving others and deepening my connections with all other living beings to the best of my capacity.

This is my personal example. Can you think of words or phrases you use in daily life that take you off course and may need an upgrade?

Which words or phrases are leading you into an "I should," or "I must," mindset?

How can you transform these into "I will," or "I want to," so you can better align with your nature and values?

As your wellness coach, I am keenly attuned to listening for these types of discrepancies, reflecting them back to you, and offering you a safe space to explore self-talk strategies that align with your own unique vision.