The Power of Words

Embracing Impeccability from "The Four Agreements"

Recently, I read the profound teachings of "The Four Agreements," a book written by Don Miguel Ruiz. Among the four agreements, the first one stands out, inviting the reader to be "impeccable with your word." Ruiz begins to provide the etymology of the word “impeccable” and defines it as “without sin”. To be impeccable with your word is to make your words without sin. This is a hard task and also one that can provide liberation from the distorted and detrimental words that fill our minds and mouths.This initial agreement is incredibly powerful because it encapsulates the idea that our words hold influence over our lives and the world around us. It begs the question: how do we become people who are impeccable with our word, and how can it lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life?

Be Impeccable with Your Word

The notion of being impeccable with our word isn’t about just speaking truthfully. It first addresses the reality that our words have power and when we become aware of this reality we should use our words to create rather than destroy. We can use our words internally with the thoughts that consume our mind to create life, love, joy, trust, faith, and integrity. Or we can use our internal words to destroy, condemn, produce fear and limit ourselves. Conversely, we can also use our words outwardly to speak life into our relationships and the world around us or we can use our words to destroy. Becoming a person who is impeccable with our word means using language with integrity, avoiding gossip and negativity, and expressing ourselves in a way that fosters love and kindness towards self and the world around us.

Words are like seeds; once planted, they have the potential to grow into powerful manifestations. Being impeccable with our word requires us to recognize the impact our words can have on ourselves and those around us. I often mention to clients that “awareness brings forth choice”. When we become aware of a habit, thought, excuse, and etc. we are offered a choice upon the realization. We can choose to make an effort to do/be/believe something different or we can choose to do/be/believe the same. We can make the choice to use our words wisely, creatively, and carefully to contribute to a more positive and uplifting world. By doing so we foster a reality that is more in alignment with our truest selves. 

It is harder said than done, obviously. I find it hardest to implement the impeccability of my words internally. The self-judgment, criticism, and the anxiety of all the shoulda, woulda, coulda’s torment me. The words we choose to use to define who we are influence our experiences and how we interact with the world around us. Our self image is impacted and thus our relationships are impacted. What happens internally always manifests itself outwardly. By making the shift to use words that reflect love, acceptance and life, we can break free from the chains of self-judgment. This ultimately leads to a path of personal growth and empowerment.

Impeccability with our word is the foundation of trust in our relationships. When we speak with honesty and authenticity, we build connections based on mutual respect. This agreement encourages us to communicate openly and transparently, fostering relationships that are genuine, resilient, and supportive.Being impeccable with our word is a journey, not a destination. It hinges on our awareness and a commitment to do our best. We will never be perfect but we can be conscious of the impact of our words in every interaction, both internally and externally.

In a world where words carry such weight, let us strive to be impeccable with our word, recognizing the power it holds in shaping our lives.