Words carry great power. I prepare my heart so that kindness softens my speech.
One of the greatest beauties of kind speech is its ability to spread far and wide.
Being considerate of others makes my relationships run more smoothly. I notice the good qualities of others, and my words naturally become more affectionate. The people I talk with are more likely to feel respected. They become more relaxed and friendly too.
Regarding others with compassion is my starting point. I try to think about the pressures and challenges that my loved ones and coworkers may be facing. I give them credit for making an effort even if their performance could be better.
There are many ways for me to make my words more gentle.
I strive to become aware of how I address others.
I consider the purpose of my communications and my effect on them.
I pause before speaking. This gives me time to select my words carefully and manage my emotions.
I prefer to avoid harsh words. I search for substitutes that will convey my meaning with more tact.
It is often useful to think about how I prefer others to speak to me. This provides guidelines for most situations. However, I also recognize that people have different sensitivities. I watch their reactions and ask questions to improve my understanding.
Today, I imagine my speech is like sunshine that brings more warmth into the lives of those I meet. This thinking brightens my own life too.
Self-Reflection Questions
- How does kind speech improve my relationships?
- What is a milder substitute for a harsh expression I sometimes use?
- How can I become more aware of my speech in stressful situations?
