One of the hallmarks of being a Woman on Fire is that we are aware of our powerful impact on others. Today, I want to shine a light on a single word that hinders conversation and, in fact, can stop it right in its tracks.
Word choice can influence meaning, especially for women who pride themselves in responding thoughtfully and caringly.
A single offending word can deflate instead of enhance someone’s life. There is a word with the power to pull the rug out from under another’s achievement, joy, excitement, or accomplishment.
That word is:
You see it on social media and hear it frequently when sharing your good news. Here are some examples taken from Facebook:
Jealous!
“I landed my dream job and I still can’t believe it.”
Jealous!
“Having a long-awaited-for day off!”
Jealous!
Using the word “jealous” — or thinking you’re being playful with “jelly” — may be intended as a compliment or teasing, but often it just knocks the person down.
When you eagerly announce something you’re proud of, excited about, or looking forward to, and someone responds, “I’m jealous,” it doesn’t feel good. It takes away from the joy.
And it goes even deeper. The person who responds with the word “jealous” is deflated, too. Using that word energetically creates a distance between desire and believing you can truly have it.
By saying you’re jealous (or envious), you set yourself up to believe good things happen to other people. Not to you.
The truth is you deserve to have your successes and joys celebrated and supported — fully and with great enthusiasm! No sideways responses accepted.
As Women on Fire, we work to positively impact the world by uplifting it.
So, the next time someone shares her joy or success, what will you say? Try one of these!
