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The Ladder of Powerful Speaking

Writer's picture: Cheryl NovakCheryl Novak

Woman powerful speaking - Coach Novak

Change Your Words, Change Your Life: How to Use Words to Transform Your Outlook on Life


Whenever you speak, aloud or to yourself, pay attention to where you are on the Ladder of Powerful Speaking (see below). Remember, YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO MOVE UP THE LADDER – one rung at a time or all the way to Promise. At the same time, it’s perfectly OK not to move up the ladder. Self-awareness is the first step.

Practice avoiding words from Rung 1 especially, as they create a heavy feeling of obligation.


Example: “Ugh, I HAVE TO go to the gym.” Now replace “go to the gym” with other daily, weekly, or monthly tasks you do. Pay attention to how this statement makes you feel emotionally and physically.

Next, replace “HAVE TO” with “I WANT TO” and repeat the statement aloud. How does this version feel in comparison?

Be mindful of how you speak to yourself and others. Words are powerful. Using more affirmative statements in your everyday life will positively shift your overall MINDSET and your outlook on life.



 


Rung 1: Obligation (BOTTOM)

Sounds like: I should, I have to, I must, I ought to

On this rung:

  • There is little freedom or opportunity to create the future.

  • People perceive themselves as victims of their circumstances.



Rung 2: Speak About Possibility

Sounds like: I might, I’ll consider, I could, Maybe I will, I hope.

On this rung:

  • Possibility feels more freeing and energizing than obligation.

  • It puts you in charge of your choices.

(Caution: Don’t get stuck here endlessly talking about what you might do without taking action!)



Rung 3: Speak Your Preference

Sounds like: I prefer, I want to

On this rung:

  • Some possibilities become clear preferences, bringing focus and intention.



Rung 4: Speak Your Passion

Sounds like: I’d love to, I’m excited about, I can’t wait to

On this rung:

  • Your voice and body language radiate enthusiasm for what you love.

  • You identify which preferences you are most passionate about pursuing.



Rung 5: Speak Your Plan

Sounds like: I plan to

On this rung:

  • Plans provide purpose and direction to your passions, especially when written down.

  • You set yourself up for action with clarity and focus.



Rung 6: Speak Your Promise (TOP)

Sounds like: I will, I do, I promise to

On this rung:

  • You are absolutely committed to a goal.

  • You free yourself from the barriers that have limited you in the past.

(Caution: Be mindful of making too many promises, as they can start to feel like obligations – leading back to Rung 1!)

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Email:  cheryl@novakcoachingandconsulting.com 
Phone:  910-477-3585
Location:  Southport, North Carolina
                                                        

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