Well no, not that C word, but all the other ones. 

To list a few of my favourites: caring, collaborative, curious, committed, cheerful, courageous, compassionate, charitable, calming, and don’t forget a dash of crazy.

Like my C-name, I have adopted these C-words to be part of who I am. There are of course, other letters and their words that describe who I am and what I admire, including B for Bold, D for Decent, E for enchanting, and well for emphasis, there is always F for…!

Thinking on words may seem pointless, but the power of the language we use and choose is not to be underestimated. The words that you use can inspire action and change. Words have power and energy that can help, heal, harm, humiliate and humble.

By choosing to use limiting words, we limit ourselves. When we choose to use positive, forward-focused words, we allow ourselves to move into a more positive, forward-focused mindset.

The words you use most frequently, convey who you are to the listener: they are symbolic of what you care about, who you care about and how you wish to be perceived and understood. 

For those among us who wish to lead the change, pull out a dictionary or dust off a thesaurus, and write down some of the words that move you most. Incorporate the use of some of these words to inspire and influence others to greater action and more positive outcomes. 

In the words of Angela Carter, “Language is power, life and the instrument of culture, the instrument of domination and liberation.”

If you want to be an inspiring leader, act like one, speak like one.