1. I've recently posted my third audio podcast entitled "10 Steps to Success".  You can download the mp3 file here, or listen online by clicking on Podcast 003 here.  Its easy to load this on your ipod or media player by using my RSS feeds.
2. Looking to get involved for Earth Day?  Support the Earth, Water, Air and Soil Foundation and register to walk a 5 or 10k this weekend on at Discovery Park, Sacramento.  For more information view the registration form here.

Newly Published Articles!

Please read my most recent full length articles published on i-grow.net.  I've been adding about 10 new blog articles per month so remember to bookmark and visit i-grow.net often.  Here are the newest additions published since my last newsletter - Enjoy!

• Living in the Moment - The Moment is Now
• The Fallacy of - ‘I Just Want to be Normal’
• Setbacks are Normal - They Indicate Progress
• One Pill for Wellness - The Cure for Cancer
• Writing Your Vision - Doug’s Five Year Vision Statement
• Writing Your Vision - Doug’s One Year Vision Statement
• Coaching Someone with High Stress
• Growing a Blog Business - April 1, 2008
• The Difference Between Life Coaching and Psychology
• The Lonely Life Coach/Sole Proprietor
• Empower Your Life with the Words You Choose
• Breaking Down Limiting Beliefs
• How to Get Motivated to become Healthy
• Learn from your Mistakes - How to Turn a Negative Situation into a Positive One

Have you stopped recently to listen to the words you use in every day conversation?  When we express ourselves with words we undoubtedly tell a story which goes well beyond the topic that we are discussing.  The words we choose paint a picture of our confidence, commitment, certainty and much, much more.  Using weak words can cost us the big contract, the date we've wanted, and the trust of a friend.  Choosing to use strong and precise words can support you in getting the raise you've wanted, will instill the correct perception of your skill set, and can prevent problems related to miscommunication.  

Most of us are aware of the importance of the words we choose in relation to the items that are listed above(and many more).  In order to empower oneself by selecting appropriate words, one must be conscious of their tendencies.  We all have a manner of language that follows a path of least resistance.  Its easy to say the phrases and words that we are 'used to' saying.  To be conscious of your speaking patterns consider how you'd like to express yourself in certain situations and practice the words you'd like to use. If you'd really like to be conscious of your language, ask a friend to point out your tendencies in the areas you find yourself weakest in.  Some common pitfalls include using the words: try, I think, maybe, kind of, etc.  When was the last time you committed to 'trying' to exercise 3x in a week?  Ask for others to point out when you are not commnicating clearly and you'll be amazed how quickly you can change your language to express certainty and confidence.  

If you find yourself commonly expressing uncertainty in your language (either at home or at work), and you can't seem to 'break the habbit', observe the topics of uncertainty.  Perhaps its an indication that you need to do some introspection to come up with a clear picture of what you want for yourself before moving forward.  

To read the full article, visit the link: Empower Your Life with the Words You Choose

Written by:  

Doug Nau; MBA, Certified Life Coach
www.coachforwellness.com, www.i-grow.net
Professional Life/Wellness Coach & Consultant,
Educational & Motivational Speaker