The Power of Words in Times of Crisis

The $#;! is officially hitting the fan.

Even with the symbols, you know what word I wanted to represent in that first sentence. Behold the simple power of words, even when the words are hiding in plain site.

We’re all officially living through crisis as countries, states, and cities begin to shut down and go into quarantine to prevent the spread of COVID-19. During this time, do you find yourself paying MUCH CLOSER attention to the words and phrasing used by government and business officials as they communicate with the public? Have you had vigorous, perhaps heated, discussions with your family, friends, and coworkers regarding the news and how it’s being communicated? Is there a sense of panic when discussing world events with others? Do you feel like your world is in disarray, making you fearful to go out in public? Behold the simple power of words, when the goal is to convey feeling and emotion, vs information and knowledge.

As we all work together during these unprecedented times, be wary of the words and phrasing you are using in communicating with others. As you talk, email, text, Tweet, Snap, and Facebook with family, friends, and acquaintances, ask yourself, is your goal is to encourage hope, togetherness, helpfulness, compassion, empathy, and caring? If those are your objectives, ask yourself, would you feel that way if someone said to you what you are saying to others? Behold the simple power of words, when you’re trying to inspire action in others.

To paraphrase an old saying, we are living in interesting times. These interesting times provide a unique opportunity for us all to find out what we’re made of, and to take the very actions we are skeptical that others will take. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity for each of us to be brave, be considerate, be strong, and be courageous across the world, at the same time. This our moment to shine, and to be proud of how we can all come together for the common good. Let’s use this opportunity to inspire our employees, our customers, and ourselves to look forward, and to support each other, because then we will all be stronger and more resilient, every day.