The Tribune

By MICHELLE MILLER

In times past folks had a code of honour that held them to a higher standard – one in which their word was their bond. Meaning that you could trust them to honour their words; if they said they would do it you could consider it done.

I, too, live by this honour code of respecting my words. I see it as an empowering affirmation of holding myself accountable. It builds confidence and sets you up as one who can be trusted.

However, in this culture of loose talk, unsavoury texting and endless message forwarding, the idea of honouring one’s words may seem like a luxury that many may feel they cannot afford. As such, the vast majority pay little attention to their words. They say and write anything without much forethought and with no real intention or respect for their words.

Perhaps it’s part of the popular habit of going along just to get along. And while this notion of loose talk may appear to be something people can get away with, deeper still, there’s a hefty price to pay.

Did you know that words are the ‘clothing’ of our thoughts? What you say reflects what you are thinking. And whether you know it or not, your words are the bricks with which you build your life. They follow you no matter where you go or how long it may take. This is why you are reminded to keep your words soft and tender, because tomorrow you may have to eat them.

Honouring your word takes heart. It is a core ingredient in any trustworthiness. The best way to honour your words is to hold yourself accountable to what you say.

Your words matter. When you speak them loosely and say things without regard, you deplete your own self-value and your word loses their worth. You cannot separate yourself from yourself; every part of you is connected to the next. Your words are no exception.

As a man thinks and therefore speaks, so is he in his heart. The words that leave your lips go forth as the negotiator of the experiences. Being true to your words not only avoids disappointing others, but more importantly, it places higher value on what your words are worth to you.

Giving your word means honouring what you say. If you are unable or unwilling to keep your word, find the courage to respectfully withdraw. Do not leave your words dangling out on a limb. Treat them with honour and respect.

Keeping your word adds to your personal success. This not only refers to the words you give to others but more so those that you give to yourself. Take a look at the many words for self- improvement that people promise themselves on a regular basis. The promises to lose weight, eat healthier, reduce debt, build better relationships, quit smoking or start savings et cetera.

Although they were spoken strongly and with much passion, for the most part they have not been honoured. Essentially, there was little commitment to follow through. The best that you can do is to be honest with yourself. Don’t make promises to yourself that you know you are unable to keep. Let your word be your bond. Begin today to take stock of the words you send out into the world. Be ever so mindful that your words matter and they must be treated with honour and respect.

Your words are indeed the bricks with which you build your life. When you make the commitment to honour what you say you are better prepared to live an empowered life. Yes, you definitely can do it!

What do you think? Please send your comments to coaching242@yahoo.com or 429-6770.

• Michelle M Miller is a certified life coach, communication and leadership expert. Visit www.talktomichellemiller.com or call 1-888-620-7894; mail can be sent to PO Box CB-13060.