Words are not just about communication, but also affect our mood, nervous system, and stress levels. When we can consciously use supportive words with ourselves, it reduces anxiety, increases presence of mind, and improves our attitude so we can feel comfortable and in control all day long. One of the best tools for maintaining a positive mindset is the use of Word Flips. A word flip is when you transform a habitual message you tell yourself by modifying the words you use.
Word flips usually require some practice and perseverance. You've probably been using some of these unwanted phrases for years or even your whole life! When you adapt how you talk to yourself, you reprogram your brain cells through a process called neuroplasticity. This growth and reorganization of brain cells are supported through repetition, so that it becomes easier and easier to practice word flips until they become second nature. As you filter out limiting beliefs, you can concentrate more on what is most important to you.
How to Make a Word Flip
There are three important steps to practicing word flips with yourself for maximum results.
Step #1 – Identification
Firstly, find the words or phrases that need attention. You probably already have an idea of what they are. These are the words you usually say to yourself when you're frustrated, stressed, make a mistake, or feel jealous. Phrases like:
I should have…
I have to do…
I'm sorry…
I'm stupid
What a jerk!
Step #2 – Write down the Opposite
The process of discovering the opposite of these words can take some thought. If you added several to your list above, it might take some time to decide how to flip them. Take your time because the right word flip can be life-changing! If it's uncomfortable to even think of a positive word, that's completely normal and okay. Even doing this exercise can bring up some of your habitual self-talk phrases, so be patient and practice self-compassion. Here are some examples to help you find what works for you:
I should clean today – I could have a clean kitchen for dinner tonight
I have to make sure everyone's happy – I get to see how everyone's doing
I'm sorry I'm late – Thank you so much for your patience
I'm so stupid when I make mistakes – Ooops, I made a mistake. That's okay, it happens to everyone and I'll work hard not to make that mistake again.
Jerk! That person just cut me off on purpose! - Maybe they're having an emergency; I can be a little patient.
Step #3 – Replace
When you automatically react with one of the words on your list, stop, take a deep breath, and replace the old phrase with the new.
“I should clean this place up” becomes… “I could create a more harmonious environment for myself.”
“I have to go to work” becomes… “I get to make money today.”
“I apologize for the delay” becomes… “I appreciate your patience.”
“I’m worried about how the meeting will go this afternoon” becomes… “I wonder how the meeting will go this afternoon?”
IMPORTANT: Be kind and patient with yourself. It takes time and practice for these word flips to become a natural response. There is some truth to “fake it ‘till you make it,” if you’re really struggling to think positively.
Bring in curiosity and possibility to replace fear and negativity in the words you say to yourself and others. You probably won’t find the solution while you sit in frustration. By practicing other perspectives we can more easily react to situations the way we want to. Use word flips to free your mind to ignite your innate insight.
Erika Flint combines her analytical expertise with incredible compassion, imagination, and powerful hypnosis techniques to help you utilize your most powerful asset – your mind — in her newly released 4th book, Academy of Eternity. Get a free copy for a journey of self-discovery to understanding how powerful your mind truly is.
