How to use everyday language to empower your life...

"I AM" isn't just for affirmations, we use it all the time!

Although it's said that since God's name is "I Am" the most powerful affirmation you can make is what you say following "I Am..."

So, let's talk about our word choice and language.

Are you saying uplifting things about yourself OR are you claiming your feelings as your identity?

In the English language, we have a lazy way of saying how we feel by identifying as the feeling. Have you noticed we say; "I am sad / mad / happy / etc." rather than saying "I FEEL..."?

Feeling is an interesting word too, because emotions are something that cause a sensation, no matter how temporary or lingering it may be. And we live in a society that conditions us to disassociate from the sensations we experience.

From parents to marketing slogans, we are encouraged to look at things "practically", "logically", and "reasonably".

But actually, we can be reasonable, practical, and logical AND listen to our feelings. We can tune into our bodies and follow our gut.

Some say that feelings are energy in motion giving us E-motion, but the word emotion can also remind us that while the energy can change and be directed, it's also important that we EMOTE, or express ourselves and not bottle things up.

Of course, if you haven't been practicing tuning into your body or your feelings it will take practice to rewire this habit, but it can be done. And you can do it!

Steps to Empowering Your Language

1. Switch from "I am" to "I feel" when talking about your emotions
2. Check the language you're using about yourself, are you angry or are you hurt? Or are you both?
3. Is there a word or feeling that you use often? Write it down, explore where it comes from, or alternative words. You might even decide to Create Your Own Affirmation.
4. Remember emotions are thoughts which are energy. And you get to choose where you direct your energy with your intention!
5. Consider a meditation practice to help you quiet your mind, increase your ability to focus, and be the inner witness of your thoughts.

This list is meant to inspire you and give you ideas. It is not a comprehensive list and you don't need to go in this order. Try what interests you, calls out to you, and perhaps most importantly what is easiest for you.

Understanding Language With Others

Now the words we use are important not just for ourselves but also in how we communicate with others.

We can change our relationships with others by expressing our emotions clearly. We can also invite others into deeper conversation by asking them about how they're feeling.

"Sounds like you might be feeling stressed, is that accurate?"

This is a compassionate communication practice you can also use with yourself! Might sounds silly but when you hear something come up maybe stop yourself and ask "Is that how I feel?"

I am the creator of my life!

In closing, I'd like to leave you with the encouragement and reminder that you have the power to change your perspective (and yes even your mood) by saying things in new ways.

Go forth and light up your life!

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Thanks for reading!

💜 Barefoot Julie