Spreading Positivity: The Language of Leadership

Do your words inspire or add to the stress around you?

If you’re on a mission to become an exceptional and uplifting leader, you’ve landed in the right place. I’m Ben Morton, a performance coach and leadership mentor, and I’m here to share some insights on how the language you use can impact those you lead.

You can watch Part One of this video here:

 

The Power of Language

In today’s fast-paced professional world, the role of a leader isn’t just about setting goals and monitoring progress; it’s about fostering a positive and productive work environment. A workplace where people feel inspired, motivated, and willing to go the extra mile.

But how do you create this environment?

It begins with understanding the profound effect your words can have on those around you. This is where the concept of emotional contagion comes into play. Emotional contagion is the phenomenon where the emotions and moods of one person can be transferred to another. And guess what? As a leader, you’re the emotional compass of your team.

 

The Language-Emotion Connection

Let’s dive into the science of it. A study led by Maria Richter revealed that when subjects listened to or thought about negative words, their brains and bodies produced anxiety and stress-inducing hormones. What’s remarkable is that not only do the words we speak or think affect our own state, but they also influence the emotional state of those in our proximity.

So, what does this mean for you as a leader?

 

The Language Challenge

It means you must be conscious, mindful, and intentional about the language you use. The first step toward any positive change is awareness. For the next week, I encourage you to pay close attention to the words you use, whether in conversation or thought. Also, take a moment to review the language in your written communications.

For instance, when someone asks how you’re doing, do you respond with “I’m good” or “I’m great,” or do you find yourself saying, “Not too bad” or “I’m knackered” and “stressed”? Because believe it or not, these words can set the tone for your day and the days of those around you.

 

Empower Your Language

When you examine your written communications, do you find phrases like “This is urgent,” “This is critical,” or “We’ve got a problem”? Or is your language more measured, inspiring, and calming? The words you choose can create the emotional state you want to convey.

 Your choice of words can determine whether your team feels motivated and confident or stressed and overwhelmed.

By using positive, measured language, you’ll foster an environment where your team can perform at their best while also ensuring they go home to their loved ones at the end of the day feeling fulfilled not stressed by work.

 

Conclusion

In the world of leadership, every word counts. Your language has the power to shape the emotional climate in your workspace, which, in turn, affects your team’s performance and well-being. So, remember, your role as a leader is not just about guiding tasks; it’s about creating an atmosphere where positivity and inspiration thrive.

As you go forward, pay close attention to your words and make the conscious choice to lead with language that uplifts and empowers. This simple change can lead to a positive, contagious effect and enable your team to achieve their best.

Until next time, take care of yourself and those you have the privilege to lead.

As always, folks, #LeadOn

 

Before you go…

If you enjoyed this post, sign up for my free 10-4-10 Leadership Programme here.