During any journey into a new course of study it’s important to learn the vocabulary and how to use and change it to suit your needs and desires. So let’s take a minute to discuss what is vocabulary.

Vocabulary is defined as the body of words used in a particular language. Here I would like to the review of two main categories of vocabulary .

1. Usage of WORDS.
2. Definitions of TERMS

So let’s start with the definition of Terms. A term is a word or phrase used to describe a thing or to express a concept, especially in a particular kind of language or branch of study. For example the term astrology is used to describe the concept around how the study of the movements and relative positions of celestial bodies (planets, stars etc) interpreted as having an influence on human affairs and the natural world.

A few other such terms (words) that are useful to know are:

• Resonate: This term is often used to describe the feelings you have when a concept or idea feels right for you. This can also be applied to music. For example, if you are listening to a speaker or a piece of music and you stop and think how good that speaker/music makes you feel then the subject “resonates” with you.
• Astrological: Relating to the study of Astrology.
• Self Talk: The dialog that we have with ourselves around any subject matter.

Don’t worry to much on memorizing a whole bunch of “terms” right now. They will come with time and study.

Now let’s look at your own vocabulary usage and how we can improve upon it.

How to improve the usage of your own vocabulary both in self talk as well as when you speak to others is probably going to be one of the hardest lessons you will learn during your journey of self improvement.

Words have power and meaning. What do I mean by this, well it’s simple. Let’s think about the last time you received a compliment. How did you feel? Now, let’s think about the last time you were insulted or made fun of. Was this feeling different?

Of course it was! What was the difference, they are both just words combined in a way to communicate something to you. The difference is the tone that was used to convey the meaning and the actual words being said.

The words themselves as well as the tone in which they are presented are critical to how you receive them.

The words “IF” and “WHEN” are two great examples of vocabulary that can be changed to better suit a desired outcome. If I were to say “If I win the lottery” , the word “if” generates a negative feeling or the feeling of doubt. It says, I don’t really believe. However, if I say “When” I win the lottery, the idea is then promoted as a positive hope.

Another example, maybe a bit closer to home. A statement like “I am not smart enough” or ” I am just stupid” are both forms of self degradation and won’t really help you be a better person.

Instead, try saying ” I have yet to understand” or ” I don’t know” These phrases take the same “lack of knowledge” and put them into a format that creates the idea that just because you don’t know something, doesn’t mean you can’t learn it

As you go through your journeys of self discovery and improvement, make sure that you are looking at what words and tones that you use in your communications as they can make all the difference in the world to whether they are perceived as insult or compliment.