As a mother, my goal is to raise my daughter to be compassionate, considerate, and inclusive. Equally important, I want her to possess the confidence to assert herself when necessary. While I don’t advocate for violence, I believe that every child should know how to stand up for themselves when the situation calls for it. At the tender age of 10, she is already beginning to navigate the complexities of gender dynamics, and it can be disheartening to witness the behaviors and attitudes that some of the boys exhibit around her. This makes it crucial for me to empower her to face these challenges with self-assurance and resilience.
I recognize that my language carries weight; the words I choose can shape my daughter’s inner dialogue. As a mother and a professional, I am committed to ensuring that my daughter hears messages that uplift her both now and in the future. The lessons I impart will not only come from my actions and explicit teachings but also from the words I use. To foster her development, I have decided to eliminate three specific words from my vocabulary: perfect, just, and little.
Perfect
The term “perfect” often slips into my conversations when I express admiration for my children’s creations or achievements. While my intention is to encourage them, I realize that this word conveys an unrealistic standard of perfectionism. Striving for perfection is not only unattainable but can also be detrimental. Instead of labeling things as perfect, I will focus on celebrating the effort and creativity behind them. There are numerous alternative words that can convey appreciation without imposing the weight of perfection. Interestingly, I seldom hear men use this word in similar contexts, which suggests that we have the opportunity to redefine our language here.
Just
The term “just” is another word that diminishes the significance of our statements. Phrases like “I’m just checking in” or “I just wanted to say” can undermine our authority and intentions. As women, we should not feel the need to justify our actions or words. By removing “just” from our vocabulary, we can speak with greater confidence and assertiveness. Men typically do not feel the need to qualify their statements in this way, which is a habit we should consider breaking as well.
Little
Lastly, the word “little” can often come across as patronizing or diminutive. While it may seem harmless to describe someone or something as “little,” it can unintentionally convey a lack of respect for their significance. For example, referring to my son as “the little one” may sound affectionate, but it can also imply that he is less important. Instead, I will choose language that reflects respect and acknowledges the value of every person and experience in our lives.
The language we use shapes our perceptions and interactions. By being intentional about our word choices, we can foster a more empowered sense of self in ourselves and our children. For those interested in exploring topics related to fertility, I recommend checking out this artificial insemination guide. For an authoritative perspective on related issues, visit this resource on IVF.
In conclusion, let us be mindful of the words we use and their potential impact. By eliminating certain words from our vocabulary, we can empower ourselves and pave the way for future generations to communicate confidently and authentically.