Language matters. Especially when talking about our health, health goals, and how we navigate our individual journeys.
In a recent 5-day nutrition challenge I helped lead with a colleague, the importance of the language I used turned on light bulbs for a lot of the challenge participants. I suggested “upgrades and enhancements,” rather than “avoidances and no no’s.”
Upgrades? That ain’t classic nutrition speak.
In our heavy diet culture and anybody-can-play-expert-on-social-media times, we are used to seeing and hearing advice such as:
Avoid added sugars.
Don’t eat meat.
Cut the carbs.
Stay away from processed foods.
Notice the “negatively-oriented” action verbs: avoid, don’t, cut, stay away. [By the way, we’re not addressing those specific recommendations here.]
This language and tone have been around for decades and is one tactic to induce behavior change. Certainly we can inspire change by creating fear, harsh rules, a sense of success and failure, and consequent punishment if the rules are broken. “You won’t lose weight if you don’t cut carbs.”
If the negative lingo is familiar to you, yet you’ve struggled with “staying on track” (whatever that track is for you), consider The Language Flip.
Change the Tone.
Replace the Negative.
Focus on the Reframe.
Like this:
Add in fiber-rich vegetables.
Incorporate a variety of protein sources.
Allow for enjoyable foods.
By switching the words we use to a positive slant, we change attitude. We change mindset. We feel more free, empowered, and less trapped by a “this or that” food choice. Your nutrition guidelines shouldn’t punish you. They should be designed to help you flourish and nourish.
Think about it and notice your language.
Can you make a flip?
Let me know what you think.
-Dina