The Power of Words

Erin Newton

Today, I went to the dentist for a filling … and I cried.

Fillings are scary sometimes. Needles are scary sometimes. Life is scary sometimes. But with the right people and the right words, sometimes that fear can be overcome.

I had a few fillings done by this dentist before and amidst my fear of needles, he was always able to calm me and help me breathe through the emotions.

I didn’t think that I would have this much trouble again. I hadn’t had any fillings in quite some time, but I thought I could handle this one. The moment the dentist held the needle, and I saw it, fear rushed into my blood, my bones, my muscles and I reached out for his hand. Thinking back, I ask myself, ‘why did I keep my eyes open?’.

The dentist told me to breathe slowly and deeply and stay calm. After the anesthetic was injected, he told me how proud he was of me for what I’d done.

That’s what I’d like to pass on to you today—breathe slowly and deeply, stay calm….I’m so, so proud of you today.

As humans, we feel certain fears and stresses. It’s key to know that they are all valid. This is my reminder to you: you are seen and supported. No matter what struggle you are facing, I’m proud of you and how you are doing!

Sometimes, the light at the end of the tunnel may not seem so bright but it’s there and, slowly but surely, you’ll dance in that sun.

Words can do everything and nothing all at once, so it is important to remember how powerful they are. Compliments, encouragement and even just affirmations can change the course of someone’s day and by extension, their life. And don’t forget that someone can be you, too. Therefore, we have to be mindful of what we say, both to others and to ourselves.

The way we speak to ourselves is the way we think and the way we think shapes our view on life. Sometimes the little consistent (or semi-consistent) positive self-talk like saying, ‘you can do this’ to yourself in the mirror or ‘God’s got you, hold on tight’ can help shift your emotions and perspective little by little. The same goes for others.

Put the ‘good’ in ‘good morning’ and the smile in your interactions and you’ll slowly see the shift in people around you. It’s so crazy how far our small actions can reach and sometimes we will never know until we do it and a few years later we understand. But never underestimate the power of your words and the impact of the simple things.

My challenge to you is to tell three  people that you’re proud of them. And tell yourself three times in the mirror on three separate occasions that you’re doing a great job and you’re proud of you too.

Practise uttering the simple words of encouragement or saying simple affirmations and it would impact your life in ways you’d never imagine.