Today, during my Leader in Me Coaching Day, our coach, Jill, said: “Each day the average person speaks 13,000 words. How do you choose to spend your 13,000 words?“
Although some research shows the average of words per day can fluctuate of course, based on many factors, this question and idea really struck a chord with me. As educators and leaders, we coach ourselves to do our best in being empathetic with our words and actions; That idea is not new to us. But, when we think of the number of words we use per day and HOW we use them, it really starts to get your mind and wheels turning.
In addition, Jill also asked us to open up our phones and to look at our top 15 messages. Our mission was to find out how many of the messages, from what we sent, were either adding to that persons bank account, or withdrawing from it. To take it a step further, we also viewed our messages with different lenses to see how the messages that people send us are affecting us. Are they adding positivity, are they neutral, or are they taking away joy from us?
Challenge: Take a look at your phone messages. Scroll through your e-mails. Ponder on the last conversations you have had with people in person, along with what manner in which you lead the conversations. Are you being a fountain or a drain?
One of the most fascinating aspects of this conversation to me is the misconception of what “withdrawals” are. Saying hurtful words to one another is a form of withdrawal, but it is not the only example. Not following through on actions or words, excluding others, overly venting, and having a negative tones and perceptions of others are additional ways we take away from people emotional bank accounts. Each withdrawal, no matter how big or small, has an affect on us.
All of us, students and adults alike, may not be able to control everything in our lives, but the one thing that many of us can choose is the words we speak. We may not always be perfect with our word choice, but we can at least be more mindful of the power words carry; With power comes responsibility.
As you continue your week and engage in conversations, think to yourself, “How do I want to spend my 13,000 words today?”
Do you like what you are reading? My upcoming book, Unleash Talent, will be released THIS SUMMER by IMpress and DBC (Dave Burgess Publishing), Inc. Before the book is released, stay tuned for future blog posts to get more sneak peeks of ideas within my book.
When my book is released, I will share more information here regarding book resources, materials, book study information, and where to purchase my book. #UnleashTalent