Bite Your Tongue!

As the daughter of two English teachers, and the little sister of yet another, proper language has never been something taken lightly. Way back when, if you were a friend of one of the Duggan 3, and you had the unfortunate fate of having our father on the other end of the phone when you rang, you had better put your grammar boots on and gingerly inquire, "Hello Mr. Duggan, how are you today? I was wondering if (enter daughter's name) is available to come to the phone, and if so, may I speak with her?"

I can't tell you how many friendships were sacrificed in the name of grammar and politeness. I will spare you the details on what would happen to an otherwise unassuming young man if he showed up with wrinkled pants and tried to take one of us on a date.

Of course this blog is about fitness, so allow me to make a correlation.

As said daughter and sister, I am keenly aware of the language people use in reference to exercise and diet. Nothing makes my blood boil more than when someone says "This brownie is evil!" or "I'm going to have to tie myself to the treadmill until I fall off to burn off this lasagna!" or, "Carbs are my downfall!" Sometimes, we're so unaware of the impact our words have. For one, you are essentially telling yourself and anyone within earshot, that you're ashamed of what you are putting into your mouth. It not only annoys the listener, it also creates an unhealthy internal attitude.

Let's face it. No brownie is evil. And your love for all things bread does not make you a bad person. It just makes you a person who likes bread. If you change your language, you might find that you change your mentality. It's a very small change, but it can have a huge effect. What good can come out of telling yourself "That cheesecake will go directly to my thighs"? You're going to feel worse about yourself, and your motivation will go to zero. Replace that with "That cheesecake is fantastic; I'll have just a small slice!" You'll be amazed at how quickly your mood changes when you just replace negative thoughts with positive thoughts. Take all the "evil" out of your language, especially when you're talking about food or exercise.

At an early age, I learned the importance of correct grammar. That lesson has stayed with me, and evolved into a greater appreciation for language, and the understanding that what comes out of your mouth, is just as important as what goes in.

Keep Climbing,

ELD