Are the words you use harmful to you?

As many people know I am a big fan of Tim Ferris and his book The Four Hour Workweek. If you haven't read it than I highly recommend getting a copy today.

This post is about something different from the main focus of his book but Tim really brought to my attention. And I saw he made a great post at his blog on this topic.

The 10 Most Common Words You Should Stop Using Now

I have become an avid believer in the power of the words I use and am glad in Tim's book and his interviews for making this more aware for all of us.

In his blog post he has a list of 10 words that you probably use daily and don't realize the effect they can have on you.

In my own life, I have replaced these 4 deadly words "have to", "should", "can't" and "try" with "choose to" or "I will". The first group give your power away or provide you an easy out. The later have you take personal ownership over your thoughts and actions.

What feels better, having to do something or choosing to do something?

Today I chose to write this blog post when in the past I would have thought I had to write it.

I have also found myself using the word "you or we" when I really mean "me". It was a way to mentally deflect the meaning and not take ownership of it.

Such as "A common thing we/you experience when doing something new is…"

In fact when I first typed this message, the 4th paragraph I said "power of the words we use" and then I caught myself!

For the next few days be more aware of the words you are saying to yourself and others. Make a note of any that are not supportive, take away your power or give you an easy way out with what you are doing.

And post to the comments with your own list and thoughts on this topic.

~Kevin

Update: See this post for another word that dramatically increases your results.