Ms. Monica Krysztopa
Chief of Communications and Marketing
July 2024 - The Power of Words
As the Chief of Communications and Marketing for the School District of Beloit, I’m in the business of words. I create content highlighting all our district’s news, events, successes, awards, recognitions, and activities/events. Recognizing our students, families, staff, alums, and community partners on our social media platforms, website and app, podcasts, blogs, and media outlets with inclusivity is an honor. This is one of my many responsibilities, but one I do not take lightly. I am often asked how do you stay so positive all the time. The truth is that I don’t (always), but for 99% of my time, and indeed, in all that I share about the School District of Beloit, I am positive!
Today, it seems that all forms of communication, especially social media, are inundated and dominated by negativity. Having shared that, I will press further to emphasize that the impact of positive words cannot be overstated. Positive words hold the potential to uplift, inspire, and console. From ancient philosophies to modern psychology, the influence of positive language on our well-being and interactions is well-documented. For instance, a simple sentence with only four words such as, "You can do it!" or "I believe in you!" can brighten someone’s day and boost their confidence.
In my search for answers on the impact and importance of positive words and messaging on our minds and bodies, I discovered the research and work of Dr. Masaru Emoto, a Japanese scientist who dedicated his life to studying water. Dr. Emoto hypothesized that thoughts, feelings, words, and ideas affect the molecular structure of water in both positive and negative ways. Through his research, Dr. Emoto proved that water, repeatedly exposed to positive or negative words, profoundly changes the water’s color, shape, and symmetry. Something to think about, considering our bodies are comprised of between 65% to 70% water. In his studies, “Emoto found that water exposed to positive words and intentions formed beautiful, symmetrical crystalline structures, while water exposed to negative words and intentions formed disorganized, asymmetrical structures.”
An article titled “Your Words Do Matter,” authored by IM&P Wellness Center, states, “Thinking and speaking negative thoughts over and over can permanently damage parts of your brain that regulate your memory, emotions, appetite, and sleep patterns. Feelings of anxiety and sadness increase, and the ability to experience long-term satisfaction decreases. You need to speak a positive word multiple times to counteract the effect on your brain of one negative word.”
Words as Building Blocks
According to research, words are not merely tools for communication; they can shape our thoughts, emotions, and actions. The 'self-fulfilling prophecy' concept, as highlighted in a Cleveland Clinic newsletter, suggests that a belief or expectation can influence behavior in a way that makes the belief or expectation come true and can influence our outcomes. When we consistently use positive language, we create a mindset conducive to success and happiness. Conversely, negative words can cause feelings of doubt, fear, and limitation.
Strengthening Relationships
Communication is the foundation of healthy relationships, and positive words are its building blocks. Expressions of gratitude, encouragement, and appreciation foster trust and deepen connections. They create an atmosphere where conflicts can be resolved constructively, as each feels valued and understood. We Thrive Together recently published an article showcasing the importance of expressing gratitude and the power and impact on our friends and families, “Gratitude plays a crucial role in deepening and enriching friendships. When we express appreciation for our friends, we reinforce the positive aspects of our relationship and foster a culture of mutual respect and kindness.”
Boosting Motivation and Productivity
According to Indeed, positive words can significantly enhance motivation and productivity in professional settings. Leaders who use affirming language inspire their teams to strive for excellence. Even in our personal lives, positive and affirming self-talk can propel us toward our goals with greater confidence and persistence. What we say to ourselves and others matters.
Healing and Empathy
Words possess a healing power that transcends physical remedies. Compassionate words offered during grief or hardship can provide solace and reassurance. Words that express empathy remind us that we are not alone in our struggles. A kind word in someone’s darkest hour can offer hope and strength. An online platform, zingformation, reiterates much of what I have shared; “When you utter words of love, comfort and encouragement you create a positive impact on people’s lives.”
Cultivating a Positive Culture
Beyond individual interactions, the collective use of positive words can shape the culture of organizations and entire communities. When positivity becomes a norm, it fosters cooperation, creativity, and innovation. It creates an environment where differences are celebrated, and individuals feel empowered to contribute their individual perspectives. Obilit shared a very cool perspective on Why Language Matters to Organizational Culture, and in this perspective, they cite a quote by Antonio Benitez-Burraco, “Languages do not limit our ability to perceive the world or to think about the world, but they focus our perception, attention, and thought on specific aspects of the world.” Positive words and affirmations keep our perception, attention, and thoughts on a path toward growth, resilience, and collaboration. They foster a mindset that nurtures optimism, problem-solving, and personal development.
Harnessing the Power of Positive Words
Harnessing the power of positive words begins with awareness and intention. We can cultivate a more harmonious and fulfilling life by consciously choosing uplifting language in our daily interactions. Practice gratitude, encourage others, and choose optimism. LinkedIn provided an article on this topic, Harnessing the Influence: The Impact of Words on Workplace Culture and shared, “By focusing on the positive, celebrating successes, and fostering a culture of optimism and resilience, leaders can create an environment where team morale flourishes.” Again, the same is true for our personal lives and those who are important to us.
Transform Lives, Nurture Relationships, Build Resilience
In conclusion, the power of positive words extends far beyond their immediate impact. They have the potential to transform lives, nurture relationships, and build resilience. In their jointly written book, Words Can Change Your Brain, Dr. Andrew Newberg, a neuroscientist at Thomas Jefferson University, and Mark Robert Waldman, a communications expert, state, “A single word has the power to influence the expression of genes that regulate physical and emotional stress.”
By embracing the influence of positive language, we have the potential to improve our well-being and participate in and contribute to a more compassionate and supportive community. I challenge each of us to recognize and harness this power, one word at a time. Let’s create a brighter today and future for ourselves and our community. Our students, families, friends, and community are positively counting on us!
