The Power of Your Words

Mar 5, 2013, Written by Sue Miley


Have you ever been hurt by someone’s words?  What about their lack of words? It’s such a delicate balance, isn’t it?

Misunderstanding is rampant in the business world.  People say things and then they are off, leaving a trail of hurt feelings and confusion in their wake.

Now enter perspective.  I don’t think most people even realize they have said something that hurt someone.  Others who tend to avoid communication really don’t know that their avoidance created confusion and many times even fear.

If you own a business, the “sensitivity meter” of your team on your words is even more extreme.  Loved or hated, you are the boss, and what you say matters.

Like it or not, you are the boss, and it is your responsibility to fix it.

You can’t read minds.  You can’t force someone to communicate.

But you can communicate.

You can communicate openly, clearly, and with positive emotions.  What I mean is with love, respect, enthusiasm, and energy rather than with frustration, impatience, or unfortunately disdain.

Want to have a huge impact in your business, focus on your words…..and lack of them.

James 3 provides more depth and biblical teaching regarding the power of our words!

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Sue Miley helps small business owners create business success on a foundation of Christian values.  She uses her education and experience as a licensed counselor, along with over 20 years in the business world, to help business owners communicate effectively with their teams.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Eva popek says

    This is so true! I don’t have “employees” yet, but I pray that in ALL my dealings with business and otherwise I don’t hurt others. When I have been hurt it is so important to tame the tongue and not say “unwise” things. Thanking God for “my medicine” at JesusRx. Funny I see this today…we are highlighting our “prescription for speech” this month! Love it! The Bible study “War of Words” was wonderful in helping me see just how our speech affects EVERYONE and EVERYTHING and learn about God’s way of communication. Have a wonderful day!

    • S_Miley says

      Hi Eva, It looks like you are already putting prayer and intention to work on ensuring you use your words wisely. Most of us, me included at times, don’t start working on it until we mess up! When you get that first employee, they will be lucky! Blessings.

  2. Mel Thompson says

    Well said. Although I have been retired for 11 years, after spending 40 years in business with probably over 20 years in management…a kind word, a positive ‘that-a-boy/girl’ went much further in production of my employees than “just do it!” approach. Although sometimes, you need to use Nike’s slogan when all else fails.

    • S_Miley says

      Hi Mel, I agree that sometimes we need to say the tough things….hopefully it is after we have done what we can on our end to communicate. But sometimes you can do your part all day long and others need some tough love. Thanks for your comments!

  3. Dave Z says

    Nice article, Sue and thanks for the reminder…it really doesn’t take any longer to “communicate openly, clearly, and with positive emotions….with love, respect, enthusiasm, and energy” than it takes to cmmunicate with “frustration, impatience, or disdain”… And, the first is more likely to net ‘influence’ and a much better chance at postive long term outcomes all around…

    • S_Miley says

      Thanks for visiting Dave. I think when we communicate often (listening is communicating too) it shows we care. And it has been a cliche for a very long time….you attract more bees with honey! Positiveness seems to breed more of the same. But I also believe there are times when tough communications are necessary too, and your comment to do these with positive intentions makes them easier to take. Thanks for sharing.

  4. Theresa Wash says

    So true!! – Oddly – words have been an issue for me this past month and as it turns out – I am actually doing a Bible Study on James – I think God is communicating!! – Your words were most encouraging!!

    • S_Miley says

      Hey Theresa….Yes, God is a great communicator and He uses creative means to send us messages! Thanks for sharing!

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Sue Miley

Sue Miley MBA, MA, LPC helps small business owners build successful businesses on a foundation of Christian values. After 20 years in business, and 10 years as a Christian counselor, Sue uses a combination of faith, business and psychology to help clients in business and in life.

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