Through the years, most of us have heard the benefits of fasting for our overall health and well-being. We know that backing away from the table can be a good idea not only for our waistline but really can become a form of detoxification. Moving away from the constant need to process and assimilate food gives our bodies a much needed rest and a sense of renewal.

I believe we can apply the principle of fasting to other areas of our life as well as see huge benefits. What would happen if we applied the principle of fasting to our conversation or words? What would be the benefits? What would happen if we were intentional about eliminating toxic words from our vocabulary? I believe our lives would radically change.

Words are seldom trivial or meaningless. They move us, inspire us to action, comfort and encourage us, bring healing or they can crush us and devastate us. We are changed either positively or negatively simply because of words, and not just words spoken by others. We are even impacted by our own words. On most days we are either encouraging or discouraging ourselves with our own words.

So, it would seem to me that one of the most effective ways to start changing our lives for the better is to change our conversation. If our words shape our thoughts and influence our tomorrow, then what are we forecasting? What positive or negative belief systems or mental images or we reinforcing by our own words?

Here are three ways we can get on the right track with our words.

1. Tune in. Tape yourself or ask friend, parent or spouse to stop you when you are speaking negatively. Listen to yourself more closely.

2. Start a Toxic Word Journal. What are your toxic words? How do you limit yourself with these words? How does your conversation become an excuse or even blame?

Ex. – It’s too difficult, It’s hard, I can’t afford, If only I had more money, If only I had more time, I can’t, What a dummy I am, I am so stupid, I shouldn’t have to, If only I, If only you, You are the reason…

3. Go on a Word Fast. See if you can pick three words that you say often and eliminate those words for a week. Find a substitute word or phrase.

Words are powerful! Even the writer of Proverbs declares the tongue has the power of life and death. No kidding! Maybe we need to rethink what we are really saying. With a little time, effort and intentionality all of us can take charge of our lives and I believe shape a better tomorrow by changing our conversation one word at a time.