Scary powerful words

How can words create a drastic drop in morale within a business or a panic situation in a community?

Words carry the power to make things better, to make people more hopeful. They also carry the scary power of making a situation drastically worse.

It only takes a few words from a few people in the social media world to start a rumor that can have a significant negative impact on anyone and everyone who reads it – and then spreads it.

Scary words can catch on fire quickly, for some reason drawing much more attention than positive or encouraging words. In the past year, scary words have panicked just about everyone over pandemic-related shortages. Now, those words have triggered a panic that has actually created a shortage in most communities throughout the southeast US.

In the business world, negative words — or the complete lack of any words — can send morale plummeting. When communication does not exist or when employees are disparaged instead of encouraged, those individuals tend to start making up their own stories, also known as rumors.

Before spitting out words without thought, take a deep breath and consider how those words will affect others. Will they incite panic? Will they generate a rumor mill? Or will they serve a more positive purpose, to inform, educate, or lift up others in your life?

Before speaking or posting, reflect on the power of your words. Use them for good.

Words have power. Are your words working for you?