Have you heard it said that you should mind your mind? As I learned over the weekend, it’s also important to watch your words!
This simple lesson, wrapped inside a humorous and true story, will make you chuckle and help you to realize one of life’s important lessons…
Those who know me well know that part of my charm is my sometimes uncanny knack to be a total goofball – unintentionally. Case in point:
Last weekend I was at dinner with a group of friends. When I got up to go to the ladies room one of my friends said “Where are YOU going?” My smart ass answer was, “To the men’s room”.
I proceeded to the rest rooms, saw 3 stalls, and attempted to open door number 1.
Locked, so I proceeded to door number 2, locked….door number 3, locked. Turned around, looked in the mirror and checked my hair and lipstick, thought “I’m not sure if door number 1 was really locked – maybe I didn’t pull hard enough”.
Pulled door number 1 again – locked. Looked under all 3 doors to make sure there were feet and thought, “all pants, no high heels…weird”.
OK, I may not always be the brightest bulb in the box – but eventually it dawned on me, “those look like men’s feet – OMG I think I’m in the men’s room!!!” Sure enough, way back in the corner – urinals!!! Holy crap (literally…)
I scooted out of there like a bat out of hell, very happy to have dodged the awkward situation that could have unfolded had one of those men finished his business, or another entered to start.
Moral of the story – watch your words. Your mind will listen to the things you say. Your success in business, relationships, personal wellness, peace of mind, etc., etc., etc., may very well be dependent on the things you say!
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Ha! Thanks for sharing this, Kathy.
In this situation, you spoke “men’s room” and that’s what your mind was probably thinking about as you walked. But you mind didn’t have an opinion about it… you probably thought “men’s room” and saw the “men’s room” sign, and your brain said “target acquired!” And in you went “without thinking” about it.
However, I think it’s important to note that just changing your speech to more positive words will not immediately change your thoughts or opinions about something. If your brain is programmed to think of something negatively, then it will continue to do so regardless what you say. The key is to BELIEVE what you say, and to keep reinforcing that new belief with words. And that’s much harder.
Jason Kerchner´s last blog ..How to Become More Efficient
Hi Kathy,
I totally agree with you. Being mindful of what you say is so important. Ultimately your thoughts dictate your words and your words will usually dictate your actions. I believe that much of what happens to people in life is determined by what they think and say. If you have a habit of speaking negatively, please make a commitment to change that pattern of behavior. Your life will be changed in a dramatic way.
Kellie Stewart´s last blog ..Are You Living A Life of Purpose?