The other day I was having lunch with two friends, both of whom go to a slimming club. However, I was shocked when they referred to it as “the FAT club”!  When I questioned this they said “that’s what all the members call it…”.  

I explained how words can have a very profound effect on us, even simple stuff that we say internally to ourselves like “I’m stupid at learning languages”, “I always get the worst colds that last for weeks”, “my immune system is really weak”.

Whatever we say to ourselves, or out loud, every cell of our body is ‘listening’ and responding if it keeps getting the same message.  This is called PsychoNeuroImmunology (the mind/body link).

I came across a BBC Thought for the Day, which sums it up nicely.

Watch your thoughts, for they become your words;
Your words will become your actions;
Your actions will become your habits;
Your habits will become your character;
And, your character will determine your future.

For the full BBC text and audio version go to http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p04bxgfp

Sources:

• BBC – Thought For The Day 
• Quote Investigator