Words Over Emotion

GOOD SELF-CONTROL (Section #3) – Week 4 – Instructor’s Script

Start the lesson by gathering your students into a tight huddle and ask these three questions:

What does it mean to have self-control?
Why is it important to have self-control?
Can you give me an example of having self-control?

Then share the following story or lesson and ask the questions listed.

This week we are going to talk about how to use our words to change our emotions. We call this ‘Transformational Vocabulary’ and it’s about using words to make our life richer and more powerful.

When we are angry, we tend to use angry words. Using angry words usually makes us, and those around us, even angrier. Which only makes things worse.

Most of the time we can change the way we feel by changing the words we use. When we do this it is called “Transformational Vocabulary” and it is very useful in helping us control our emotions.

You use Transformational Vocabulary by replacing strong, negative words and phrases with words that express a more positive emotion. What you say and how you say it can actually take you from being “extremely mad” to a “little irritated.” It works because what we say actually helps determine how we feel.

For example, you could say: “I am super mad at my brother,” or “I am a little annoyed with my brother.” Which way would it make it easier to gain control of your emotions?

What would happen if you said that you were:

Slightly Annoyed instead of Mad - would it make you happier or sadder?
A Little Irritated instead of Ticked Off - would it make you happier or sadder?
Disappointed instead of Heartbroken - would it make you happier or sadder?
Fascinated instead of Frustrated - would it make you happier or sadder?

You can also make Neutral or Positive Words even Stronger
What would happen if you said that you were:

Great instead of Okay - would it make you happier or sadder?
Awesome instead of Pretty Good - would it make you happier or sadder?
Getting Better instead of Alright - would it make you happier or sadder?

This week I want you to concentrate on what you say and how you say it. Try to find a happier, stronger, richer way to express your emotions. Watch what it does to your and other people’s emotions