When words speak louder than actions

From the communication desk: When words speak louder than actions

By Sheila Murithi

Many times we have heard and used the phrase “Actions speak louder than words” we hastily throw it around and mostly in judgment; when a person’s actions show their real attitude, rather than what they say.

However, in some situations, words serve as the only lifeline to forming perceptions about individuals and understanding their intentions as well as their capabilities.

Words do matter so much that they can either build or destroy. For instance, the election season is upon us, campaigns are being held in every corner of the country. Our leaders are vocal on their promises and manifestos, we listen and decide and when the rubber meets the road we can only hope they do what they said they will do.

What we choose to communicate is very important. Words, when selected and delivered with courage and integrity, are the foundation of true leadership, teamwork, and relationships.

They create a gateway to the mind; people want to know more about you and what propels you to act.

We cannot depend on actions alone to be the judge of our character and capabilities. As much as people say “Kazi yangu itanitetea” it is not enough and if it was, then we would not need to have appraisals where we sit down with our supervisors to explain and show evidence of our work.

Neither would we go for interviews and try and sell our proficiencies in the hopes of securing a job. The reader of those documents typically has not seen you in action. Therefore, your words must speak about how effectively and creatively you work, about the special talents you bring to your work, and about what you have accomplished.

Too often, people place their focus on actions instead of words, while ignoring that words lead to actions.

There is a saying I heard frequently growing up “Maji yakimwagika hayazoleki.” When words harm or cause someone to lose face, they cannot be unsaid. This is true even if the intentions behind our words are neutral or even positive.

Words spoken by people in leadership; managers or supervisors are weighty and can cause a desired reaction or effect and at the same time they can destroy the morale and outlook of the employees.

Consider a team leader who in disagreement with his staff uses phrases like, “what do you want me to do?” or “this is a joke, if not then it is quite stupid” his team members will feel down and disrespected. Although the intent was not to demean the team members, the impact of the words did not align with the intent.

When we communicate to our patients, even if it is speaking our inner thoughts out loud or just making a casual comment, they may interpret it as orders or dismissive remarks because you are the authority in that situation. This soon becomes a problem and can create confusion and stress.

It is wise to pause before reacting and be mindful and intentional about our words. While we think before we speak, ask:

• How will my message be received or interpreted? • What impact will it have on the other person? • Is it useful or necessary? • Is it kind?

MIND HOW YOU SPEAK

Be deliberate and mindful with your word choice and make sure your message is clear and delivered with kindness and respect and this will have a great impact on our patient experience.

Be deliberate and mindful with your word choice and make sure your message is clear and delivered with kindness and respect and this will have a great impact on our patient experience. Desire to clearly articulate yourself with confidence so that you do not miss out on opportunities or be misunderstood. Our words can make us compassionate, bold, and free.