The Power of Words Well Spoken

The power of the spoken word can change history. Ethical leaders who can choose and use words powerfully to advance the world are always needed - especially right now.

We all know that at some point actions must surpass words.  But without the ability to use words to engage others, create meaning, provide clarity, inspire imagination, ignite courage, and fuel a sense of shared purpose, we may never see the actions we need to advance our teams, organisations, and our countries.

I love words and I love how the power of the spoken word can bring words to life. and create resonance not always projected through the written word alone.  Words have helped shape history, pivoted us towards bold dreams, delivered wins against the odds and healed broken teams, communities and nations. Words, used well, can open doors to new possibilities.  Words really matter.  They can change what happens.

Some themes and questions that come to mind as I think about the power of the spoken word:

1. Words are not always spoken. Our body conveys a message our clothes can’t disguise.
2. Someone today will use the power of their words to open the doors to possibility, insight, healing, and hope. Some will close them shut.
3. Most bold ideas start life as fledglings. If you have a fledgling idea that you think deserves wings, push it out. Let it fly.
4. Even an incomplete thought can be another person’s missing link. It’s important to speak up. Express oneself. You may have half the idea someone else is waiting for. Don’t wait to be right or perfect.
5. Why do our leaders so often get stuck in a largely transactional discourse?  Is this why many companies, large and small, lose their soul?  Is this why countries lose their soul? 
6. How can you better draw on the power of the spoken word to re-vitalize your leadership?

What are your thoughts?  Who, in your opinion, is using the power of the spoken word right now to make an impact in the world?