Compelling words

New year, new decade, new intentions ... it's that time again when many of us decide to make resolutions and changes, shift our behaviours and create new goals.

We use language to express those resolutions to confirm them as much to ourselves as to our family and friends.

As we know, language is a powerful tool. The world that we have created for ourselves is a reflection of the thoughts we've held and the words we've used to express those thoughts and intentions.

In this context, one word that needs to be handled with great care is the word 'want'.

We often use it to express our desires and needs. Indeed, the Oxford English reference dictionary defines 'want' as 'desire; wish for possession of; need'.

But the same dictionary also defines 'want' as 'to be without or fall short by', 'a lack, absence or deficiency' and 'poverty; need'.

Thus we could argue that when we say 'I want' something, we are stating that we do not have it as well as expressing the desire for it.

We are confirming our state of lack and therefore reinforcing that state of being, which pushes away that which we say we 'want'.

So, when you are stating your new year resolutions, take great care which words you choose to use.

Happy new year: may you realise all your dreams and aspirations in 2010.


And remember: mind your language.