Let’s talk about the power of language.
We’re all looking for massive success in life. But while some have cracked the code, others are left confused and lagging in the dust.
Indulge me for a moment and let your mind wander to your last dental visit. I can see you now. Seated in the center of a sterile room. A dental assistant wraps a smock around your neck and preps you for the dentist. An exam light shines in your eyes and a suction valve is lodged in the corner of your mouth. “Central incisor, molar, inferior 2, 5.
WTF are they talking about you wonder. Why are my teeth numbered, and what do these numbers mean?
Here’s another example that’s perhaps more relevant. You meet up with some new colleagues or attend a networking event. The bulk of attendees work in an industry you know of but are worlds apart from. They’re speaking English but you have no idea what they’re talking about.
Now imagine a new scenario. You’re at the same networking event. And again, you’re outside of the industry. What’s different this time? This time you have a secret weapon. And that secret weapon is you speak their language.
Sometimes the only thing that’s holding you back from the next level in your career, your business, your relationships, and whatever else you’re reaching for, is the language you use in and around them.
The Language of Success
Plain and simple, successful people speak another language. And in order to get to the next level, you need to know the code. Luckily, the code is here for the taking. You just have to know where to look.
To get started, lets focus on 3 simple words that will serve as the building blocks of your new language. Baby steps. Easy does it. You’ll be fluent in no time.
Here are the 3 words to add to your arsenal of success words when you find yourself in circles of power and influence:
“Risk”
Definition
The Marriam-Webster dictionary defines risk as the possibility of loss or injury and the chance that an investment (such as a stock or commodity) will lose value. Risk is exposure to hazard or danger.
Why You Should Use It
When’s the last time you took a risk? If there’s one thing professionals in successful circles are comfortable with, it’s risk. They take regular risks in business and life and want to know if you’re comfortable with doing the same.
Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has said “the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks.”
When it comes to success risk is not just a suggestion, it’s an absolute necessity.
“Empathy”
Definition
The dictionary definition for empathy is the capacity for and action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and experience of another.
Why You Should Use It
Oh empathy. The golden word sweeping the streets of Silicon Valley. What was once the word of the moment has proved to have staying power and be a measurable quotient of company success.
And thank goodness. Now more than ever corporate profits and wealth inequality are at an all time high. There is no reason why success in life and business cannot live alongside caring for others. Adding this word to your vocabulary will refine your vision and signal your capacity for leadership.
“Buy-in”
Definition
Merriam-Webster defines this as: the acceptance of and willingness to actively support and participate in something (such as a proposed new plan or policy).
Why You Should Use It
Finally, there’s buy-in. How engaging are your ideas? When’s the last time you got buy-in for them? Who’s behind you? How’d you get them to get behind you? Buy-in is your ability to motivate others and move people to action. When it comes to having more success in life and business, you’re going to have to be able to move people to action. Talk about how you’ve been able to get buy-in and the right people will listen.
