The Power (and Weight) of Words

Growing up in the South, I learned that the highest compliment you could give someone was to say they were a "good person." It meant they were trustworthy, authentic, and did their best in every interaction. It wasn’t about perfection—it was about integrity.

When I introduced someone by saying, “This is a good person,” I would see that person's face light up with recognition. They understood the weight of those words—the honor they carried.

Words shape us. They define how we see ourselves and how we move through the world.

In my coaching practice, I often work with clients who have internalized words—sometimes words they’ve thought about themselves, other times words that were spoken to them. These words can become part of their identity, even when the words are not true. Words can hold people back, stopping progress before it even begins.

A significant part of the work my clients and I do together is reframing words. We ask, "Are these words the truth?" Often, they aren't. And when we replace those limiting beliefs with truth, something shifts. Clients begin to see their own worth. They recognize their authenticity. They reconnect with their purpose and take meaningful steps forward.

But reframing isn’t just about removing the negative—it’s about choice: choosing words that inspire, uplift, and energize.

Words like:

• Exhilarating — the rush of excitement that comes from embracing possibility

• Exuberance — the boundless joy that comes from stepping fully into life

• Awe — the deep wonder that reminds us of our connection to something bigger

• Kind — the simple yet profound way we can show up for ourselves and others with grace

I recently bought a book simply because of the title: The Swedish Art of Aging Exuberantly (Life Wisdom from Someone Who Will (Probably) Die Before You). Just looking at this book (and the word exuberantly) elevates my mood! I now want to age exuberantly. Words matter!

I do this coaching work because I believe in the power of transformation. I believe in the potential within each person to rewrite their story. And I’ve been privileged to witness it time and time again. Recently, clients have written:

• Linda listened and pushed me outside my comfort zone just enough to make positive changes and provide insights that I needed to help me reach my goal.

• I am so grateful for the compassionate and nonjudgmental space that Linda held. Thank you.

• I want to thank you again for all your help on my journey. I am so happy we were able to work together. I truly do not think I could have made it through this trying process without your support. Thank you again.

Words matter. The ones we hold onto. The ones we choose to believe. The ones we allow to shape our future.

So, as you consider the words that define you—what’s possible from here?

In your corner,

Linda