How the right words can help.
In this series, we have been looking at how words can help you deal with difficult situations. Now, we present six points from the series that you can apply right away.
Know how to disagree. Some people believe that to be nice, you have to agree with everybody. That is not true. It is all right to disagree when you need to. As far as possible, do it with goodwill. Start and end on positive notes.
Avoid blaming. Look for solutions instead. Imagine someone saying to you, "It's your fault. Don't blame me!" Turn a situation like that the right way up by replying "I wonder what went wrong. Surely we can make it better. Let's figure out how."
Take charge of yourself. Think before saying anything. If you blurt out whatever comes to your mind, you might make a fool of yourself. It is better to be slow to speak. Be respectful to others and to yourself as well. That way, you will also maintain your dignity.
Let metaphors speak for you. Remember this: metaphors convert your speech from a scoop of plain ice-cream into a delicious sundae. Create your own metaphors because they are breaths of fresh air. They can make people sit up and listen harder.
See the funnier side. Share your humour with others and grow closer by laughing together. Humour is a great way to reduce tension. But, avoid sarcasm or putting down anyone. Instead, be like comedienne Ellen DeGeneres: she cracks jokes throughout her TV show without ever using mean words about anyone. Let your jokes be as kind and gentle as hers.
Use positive self-talk. Replace any negative thoughts by saying upbeat, encouraging words to yourself. That means, for example, exchanging an "I can't do that" with an "I can do this". Or, an "I'm so stupid" with an "I know I am clever enough" sentence. Self-talk actually works. Self-talk can be your very own secret strategy for facing life.
- MARY GEORGE
Know how to disagree. Some people believe that to be nice, you have to agree with everybody. That is not true. It is all right to disagree when you need to. As far as possible, do it with goodwill. Start and end on positive notes.
Avoid blaming. Look for solutions instead. Imagine someone saying to you, "It's your fault. Don't blame me!" Turn a situation like that the right way up by replying "I wonder what went wrong. Surely we can make it better. Let's figure out how."
Take charge of yourself. Think before saying anything. If you blurt out whatever comes to your mind, you might make a fool of yourself. It is better to be slow to speak. Be respectful to others and to yourself as well. That way, you will also maintain your dignity.
Let metaphors speak for you. Remember this: metaphors convert your speech from a scoop of plain ice-cream into a delicious sundae. Create your own metaphors because they are breaths of fresh air. They can make people sit up and listen harder.
See the funnier side. Share your humour with others and grow closer by laughing together. Humour is a great way to reduce tension. But, avoid sarcasm or putting down anyone. Instead, be like comedienne Ellen DeGeneres: she cracks jokes throughout her TV show without ever using mean words about anyone. Let your jokes be as kind and gentle as hers.
Use positive self-talk. Replace any negative thoughts by saying upbeat, encouraging words to yourself. That means, for example, exchanging an "I can't do that" with an "I can do this". Or, an "I'm so stupid" with an "I know I am clever enough" sentence. Self-talk actually works. Self-talk can be your very own secret strategy for facing life.
- MARY GEORGE
