The phrase ‘We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit’ is a quote often attributed to Greek philosopher Aristotle. It emphasises the importance of consistent action and the formation of habits in achieving excellence.
In this piece, I argue that we are what we speak, as our words are supposed to help us express or show what is on our minds. Words are a way to put thoughts into language so we can share them with others.
When we speak, our words are like Yangos that carry our thoughts and feelings to others. I think of words like Yangos. Sounds weird, but it gets the point across.
The idea is that our words have the power to transport what is going on inside our hearts and minds so that others can pick up on it.
Sometimes it can be a feeling. At times, it is an order or even a fact. When we use words correctly, they can help us connect in a real way.
This connection allows us to see what is going on in each other’s minds, share our emotions and even grasp things we cannot see.When we communicate effectively, words have the ability to make our thoughts and feelings visible to others.
It is like they create a bridge between people, allowing us to share our worlds and turn them into something we can all experience together.
The right words can be really powerful. It is not just about what we say. It is about how we say it and why. You see, the way we use language can have an impact. What we say, how we say it and the reasons behind it all matter.
That is what gives words their power. They do not just carry meaning. They can also inspire, comfort or hurt. It is a simple truth, but one that is easy to forget. Speaking with intention makes all the difference.
Suddenly, our words are clearer and more thoughtful. We are kinder too. What we say has a lot more impact. When we think about how we are coming across.
Our tone, the way we say things. It is like we are giving our message the respect it deserves. That way, we can be pretty sure it will get through to others the way we mean it to. It is not just about getting our point across. It is about doing it in a way that really matters and serves the purpose.
Good speech is not about speaking but about listening first. When we listen, we learn to be patient and humble and understand where the other person is coming from.
This helps us think before we respond, rather than just blurting out a reaction. It is the difference between saying something that brings people together and saying something that drives them apart.
If we take the time to listen before speaking, we are showing respect. Not for the other person but for the power of our own words. Disagreeing does not have to mean demeaning them. We can have opinions without being hurtful or rude. It is a matter of respecting the person even when we do not see eye to eye. When we are under pressure, the way we speak can be really revealing.
It says a lot more about who we are than when things are going smoothly. For me, real respect is not about staying quiet when someone is saying something you agree with.
It is about being able to stay calm and level-headed even when you disagree with someone. Sometimes it is best to keep quiet. When you choose to be silent, it is not that you are avoiding something. It is that you are paying attention. Silence gives you room to think, calm down and figure things out. In a world that is always noisy, saying nothing can be an effective way to get your point across.
The way we speak is a big deal. Our words are not noise. They reflect who we are as people. When we communicate, we are giving away all sorts of things about ourselves.
Our values show how emotionally mature or intelligent we are and how much respect we have for others. Every time we choose to speak up, listen or just stay quiet, it means something. That is why it is so important to be careful with our words. In the end, how we speak is not about how we talk. It is about who we are.
*Pinehas K. Pinehas is a multimedia practitioner. The views expressed do not reflect those of his employer.