The Weight of Our Words

As a dad, a powerful revelation came from a mentor: the immense impact of my words on my children. To them, I was a towering figure, like Superman. A casual remark or a frustrated gesture could reverberate with thunderous force. This insight reshaped my interactions, not only with my children and later my grandchildren, but also in my marriage and professional life. We intuitively adjust our physical presence when speaking to a child; the same sensitivity applies to our words, tone, and body language, all of which are amplified in a child's perception.

This principle extends far beyond the parent-child dynamic. The weight of our words is often perceived differently by others than we intend. Early in my sales career at a printing company, my boss, a formidable and intense figure, loomed large. His words and presence initially instilled fear and stress in me. Fortunately, his intention wasn't intimidation; it was my own perception that created that dynamic.

Despite early struggles, I persisted, driven by an inherent hunger for success in sales. Six months in, while not yet excelling, I was laying the groundwork. Then, a turning point: I overheard my boss tell a colleague, "Mike is tracking to be one of the top reps in the country." That single statement was a seismic shift in my self-belief. It propelled me forward, and within a few years, I achieved national recognition as the top salesperson. His words, delivered at a crucial moment, profoundly influenced my trajectory.

My dad's influence on me was significant, largely shaped by his unwavering presence. He was always there, showing up to every single one of my sporting events. It was through this consistent, reliable presence that he demonstrated his love for me, a powerful lesson in commitment and support.

Of course, the most consistently impactful words in my life have come from my wife, who always assured me, "I'd live in a mud hut with you." While I certainly didn't desire a mud hut, her unwavering support and belief were the ultimate affirmation.

Whether you're a leader, spouse, parent, grandparent, or coach, your words carry significant influence. How do your words empower and shape those around you, and how do their words, in turn, impact you?