Your words matter. They shape your world and perception.

Your words make a difference in shaping the world around you. 

Imagine a time you gave someone an unprompted compliment. Maybe you complimented their new hair, regarded something they said as insightful, or expounded on an achievement they completed. 

You likely witnessed something quite remarkable. 

Their eyes lit up, their face broke into a shining smile, they stood stronger and taller, and they were filled with a new, palpable form of energy.

All because of simple words. 

Have you ever received hurtful words from someone? Painful words that are seared into your brain and constantly remind you of your weaknesses.

• "You can't play with us today."
• "You have nothing to add to this team." 
• "You'll never make it."

These words reverberate in your head because we are not just humans made of flesh and bone. We are humans made of words. They shape us, one another, and the world around us.

You can destroy a life, country, or cultural identity with mere words. People have used words to convince, scheme, betray, and retaliate. Words have power.  

This is why you need to pay attention to what you say to yourself. 

If you really do believe your words have power, you must also think they have power over you.

You might not witness the physical reaction words have on you like you can with others. But rest assured. Bit by bit, your words are impacting you. 

It serves absolutely no one to have you diminished.

Here are five things to shape yourself for the positive:

1. "I will have a good day because it's my choice."
2. "I am not afraid to be wrong."
3. "Every day, in my own way, I am becoming more successful."
4. "I have all I need to make today a great day."
5. "Today, I will be more mindful of all the small blessings I should be thankful for."