I’ve noticed something interesting among beginner surfers—it’s all about the words they use. Imagine chatting with someone who’s just starting out in surfing. You might hear them say things like:
“I’m a beginner.” “I’m not good at this.” “It’s really hard for me.”
These words might seem harmless, but they’re actually shaping their mindset. When they say these things, they’re telling themselves and the world that they can’t learn or that they’re okay with not being good because they’re new. This kind of thinking can hold them back.
But there’s more to it. These words affect their brain too. Every time they say, “I’m bad at surfing,” their mind starts to believe it. Our brains work with pictures, and this picture of them struggling with surfing becomes stronger over time.
They start to associate surfing with things like “falling,” “frustration,” and “looking silly.” With all this negativity, how can they ever improve?
You won’t hear experienced surfers saying they’re terrible. They might be humble, acknowledging that they’re learning or that the conditions are tough. But they never label themselves as bad surfers. They’ve been through all sorts of days—big waves, small waves, challenging days, and super fun days. They’ve felt foolish too, but they don’t focus on that.
They’re focused on the process and the joy of surfing.
Translating to Life: The Power of Words
You’ve probably noticed a similar pattern in everyday life. Think about when you meet new people. How often do you hear someone say, “I’m bad with names”? It’s like they’re saying, “I don’t care enough to remember your name.” But if someone makes a memorable impression, you’re more likely to remember them.
People who are great at remembering names don’t use the “I’m bad with names” excuse. They weren’t born with this skill—they learned it. They’ve had those moments when they forgot a name and had to ask again. But they didn’t give up. They found ways to remember, asked for advice, and practiced until they got better.
It’s simple but not always easy.
The words you use to describe yourself have incredible power. So, if you want to excel at something, be mindful of the language you use. Your words can either help you or hold you back.
Remember, the names example is just one way this plays out. You can see it in many areas of life—learning a new skill, playing sports, reading, and more.
Today’s Takeaway: Harness Your Language
Here’s the lesson for today:
1. Words Matter: The way you talk about yourself and your abilities matters. Use language that empowers you instead of limiting you.
2. Learn from Experience: Just like experienced surfers, people who are good at something have learned from experience. They’ve faced challenges and grown stronger because of them.
3. Embrace Growth: Life is full of ups and downs, just like surfing. Embrace the journey and keep learning from every experience. It’s how you become a pro at navigating life’s waves!
So, remember that the words you use can shape your journey. Use them wisely and watch how they propel you forward in your pursuit of greatness.
Jay Bialecki – You are awesome!