“Every word you speak supports your perceived reality. Don’t put words to the subjects you do not want to add momentum to.” – Abraham-Hicks
Words are powerful because they shape our thoughts, which create emotions, which create vibration.
Our vibration, through the law of attraction, charts the course of our lives. This is true whether the words are positive (empowering) or negative (disempowering).
Knowing this may prompt you to become more aware of the words you speak and think, and change them so you can begin to attract the results you really desire in your life.
Here are seven negative words and phrases to stop saying and remove from your vocabulary. Instead, choose one of the positive, empowering suggestions to replace them.
1. I Can’t
Henry Ford said: “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t–you’re right.” The use of this word is responsible for countless unmanifested dreams. By saying you can’t do something, you’re already doubting yourself and submitting to defeat. The Universe will match your belief and give you even more things to support it.
Empowering alternatives: “I choose not to,” or “I prefer not to.”
2. I Should
When you tell other people they should or shouldn’t do something, you’re not respecting their ability to make the best decisions for themselves. When applying the word “should” to yourself, it elicits feelings of frustration, guilt, and regret. “I should go to the gym,” suggests guilt for not going. Replace this word with “choose,” as in, “I choose to go to the gym,” or “I choose not to go to the gym today.”
Empowering alternatives: “Choose to,” or “could.”
3. Don’t
When you tell yourself you don’t want something to happen, such as “I don’t want to be in debt,” the Universe does not hear the word “don’t.” It hears “I wan to be in debt.” It’s a “Yes” Universe. No matter what you choose to believe or think or say, the Universe always says “yes.” If you think about debt, the Universe says “yes” to that. If you think prosperity, the Universe says “yes” to that. It’s up to you.
Empowering alternatives: When you catch yourself saying “don’t,” ask yourself, “What do I want?”
4. But
The word “but” changes intentions and actions. It negates or cancels everything that goes before it. “I want to exercise, but I don’t have time.” Your mind does not focus on your desire to exercise, it only believes that you don’t have enough time. The word “but” stops you from accomplishing something. On a positive note, it is a good way to identify limiting beliefs (called tailenders in EFT).
Empowering alternative: “And,” or “however.”
5. I Have To
How much of your day is spent doing things you feel like you have to do? The words “I have to…” implies you don’t have a choice or control over your life. It emits a vibration of being a victim to whatever restriction has been placed on you. Remember, even though you may not always be able to immediately change an unpleasant activity, you do get to choose your feelings about it. Will you choose resistance or acceptance?
Empowering alternatives: “I get to,” or “I’m going to.”
6. I’ll Try
Like Yoda says, “Do or do not. There is no try.” When you tell yourself and/or someone else that you will “try,” you are more likely to give up or just stop when the first obstacle shows up. By making clear choices to do or not do something, not only are you more likely to succeed, but you are also emitting a clear signal to the Universe about your intention.
Empowering alternatives: “I Intend to,” I aim to,” “I will,” “I can,” I commit to.”
7. I’ve Got a Problem
A problem is simply an interpretation of a neutral event. It’s a story you tell yourself and live out. A “problem” is only a problem because you believe it to be so, yet it is only your perception of the situation.
Empowering alternative: Instead of a “problem,” see the situation as a challenge or opportunity.
As a deliberate creator, you’ll want to pay attention to your thoughts and words, and only focus on what you really want. It takes practice, but in time you will see the positive results of your mindfulness.
