"El lenguaje es muy poderoso. El lenguaje no solo describe la realidad. El lenguaje crea la realidad que describe."

Language isn't just a tool we use to explain things around us—it's the very thing that shapes how we perceive those things. Think of language like a pair of glasses. Depending on the tint of those glasses, you see the world differently. The words we choose, the sentences we construct—they don't just tell us about reality; they actually mold that reality for us.

Historically, this idea has roots in the philosophy of language, especially in the works of thinkers like Ludwig Wittgenstein or the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis. In simple terms, these theories argue that the way we speak and the language we use can influence our thoughts and behaviors. This isn't just highbrow philosophy—it's everyday life. When motivational speakers tell you to adopt a positive outlook and speak affirmations, they're really tapping into this power of language.

Take, for instance, the civil rights movement in the United States. When Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech, he didn't just describe a vision of equality—he helped create that vision. His words painted a picture of a world where people were judged by the content of their character, not the color of their skin. Those words didn't just describe a hoped-for future; they began to shape it. People were inspired, mobilized, and their collective actions started to make that dream a reality.

So, how can you use this in your life? Start by being mindful of your language. If you constantly say, "I can't do this," you're setting yourself up for failure. Flip the script—say, "I'll figure this out." Notice how that simple change in language makes you feel more empowered? It's not magic; it's the power of language creating a different reality for you. Words carry weight. They influence not just how others see you, but how you see yourself.

Imagine you're a teacher. If you constantly tell a student they're bad at math, they'll start to believe it. Instead, try saying, "You haven't got it yet, but you will." Can you see the difference? The first statement shuts down possibilities; the second opens them up. It's not just about being nice—it's about constructing a reality where the student can succeed.

Here's a story to drive it home: Picture a young woman named Sarah who always said, "I'm terrible at public speaking." Every time she had to give a presentation, she'd get anxious and stumble over her words. One day, her mentor suggested she change her language. Instead of saying she's terrible, she began to say, "I'm getting better at public speaking." It felt awkward at first, but over time, she noticed a shift. She started preparing more confidently, her anxiety decreased, and her presentations improved. Her reality changed because her language changed.

So next time you're tempted to speak negatively about yourself or your situation, think about the reality you're creating with those words. Choose words that build a reality you want to live in. It might take some practice—old habits die hard—but the more you do it, the more natural it will feel. Remember, language isn't just a mirror reflecting the world; it's a paintbrush that colors it. Choose your colors wisely.