At Evolve with Anna Jane, I believe transformation starts with self-awareness. And one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, parts of self-awareness is the language we use every single day.
The words we speak to ourselves, and others aren’t “just words.” They’re shaping how we think, how we feel, and ultimately, how we live.
The link between thoughts, language & behaviour
Our thoughts create our language. Our language reinforces our thoughts. And together, they drive our behaviours.
Here’s how it often plays out:
Thought: “I’m terrible at speaking in public.”
Language: “I can’t do presentations; I always mess up.”
Behaviour: Avoiding opportunities, holding back at work, or feeling anxious every time speaking is required.
Here is the thing, we can shift the cycle by changing the words first, even before we fully believe them. Saying “I’m learning to become more confident when I speak in public” opens up space for growth. Suddenly, practice feels possible. Asking for support feels okay. Small steps forward become easier.
Words that hold us back vs. words that set us free
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“I can’t…” ➝ “I’m learning how to…”
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“I should…” ➝ “I choose to…”
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“I always fail…” ➝ “I’m discovering what works for me.”
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“This is impossible.” ➝ “This is a challenge I’m willing to grow through.”
Try this today
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Notice your self talk. Pay attention to the words you use with yourself. Are they harsh, doubtful, or supportive?
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Reframe with curiosity. Instead of “I don’t know how,” try “I wonder how I can figure this out.” It’s a tiny shift, but it keeps the door open for learning and new possibilities.
Remember, language is more than communication, it’s creation. When you change the words you use, you begin to change the life you live.
Adopt Growth-Focused Language
Add words like “yet”, “learning”, and “growing” to your vocabulary. For example, “I can’t do this yet” carries a completely different energy than “I can’t do this.”
Speak Abundance into Your Life
Practice affirmations or simple positive statements like “I am capable of creating change” or “I welcome opportunities that align with my growth.” Over time, these become self-fulfilling.
Living in Alignment with Your Words
When you consciously choose your language, you begin to align your inner world with the life you want to create. Words can either keep you stuck in cycles of doubt, or they can open you up to abundance, possibility, and transformation.
The next time you catch yourself saying “I can’t”, pause. Ask yourself: “What would it feel like to shift this language into something more empowering?” That small choice could be the start of a much bigger transformation.
