For decades (even centuries), we have focused on IQ (Intelligence Quotient). IQ is defined by a person's "intelligence," their knowledge, and their ability to learn and retain information. We now know that these tests are heavily influenced by environmental factors – where we live and what we have been exposed to – and motivational factors – people's motivation and interest in certain subjects.
Then, we witnessed the rise of EQ – emotional intelligence. EQ is defined as "the ability to understand and manage one's own emotions, as well as to recognize and influence the emotions of those around them" (1). Daniel Goleman popularized this term in his book Emotional Intelligence.
Today, I'd like to introduce you to LQ – linguistic intelligence.
If you type the term linguistic intelligence into Google, you will find results related to Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences, which describes linguistic intelligence as a deep understanding of words, their rules, and their functions.
I would like to take our understanding and interpretation further. Linguistic intelligence is the foundation of our awareness of the words we use – when we talk to ourselves and to others and when we listen to others.
I push the concept because, beyond linguistic intelligence, linguistic influence is even more important, in my opinion. Understanding words is one thing; understanding how they influence our behaviors is even more important.
Words are not just letters.
Words are the crystallization of emotions.
Words transform emotions into stories.
Stories become beliefs.
Beliefs guide our behaviors.
Behaviors create our reality.
Linguistic intelligence allows us to become aware of our words and, from a deeper awareness, to speak with greater intentionality.
Linguistic intelligence and linguistic influence are about understanding which words create which emotions, and then deciding to change our words in order to modify behaviors.
Two key words here: understand and decide.
We want to understand how words trigger emotions and which words trigger which emotions, and then, if necessary, choose differently.
Let's take a few examples to make this tangible.
Example 1: I should do this / I shouldn't have done that
"Should" is not just a verb; it's a judgment about ourselves (or about others when we say it about another person). This, in turn, takes us to the land of "not enough" – not good enough, not educated enough, not organized enough…
: : Instead, I suggest you say "I could do this" or "I could have done that." Feel how this phrasing opens up a world of possibilities for your brain to see different alternatives, different options, and different opportunities.
Example 2: I hate this / I hate when that happens
This type of linguistic construction raises the level of negative energy in our bodies, which causes the brain to go into survival mode, looking for what could potentially go wrong (and we know that if we look for what's wrong, we will find plenty of things…)
: : To reduce the energetic load of negative emotions, play with less intense words, such as "I don't really like that" or "It annoys me when that happens" – you'll notice how much faster you'll bounce back to your more positive and optimistic self.
Example 3: I can't
The brain is a huge creative machine that adapts to all the thoughts we feed it. When we tell ourselves, either internally or aloud, "I can't," we put ourselves in a passive position – where life controls us instead of us being in the driver's seat.
: : Replace your "I can't" with "I won't" and feel what you feel in your body. It's one of the most fascinating experiences to have. You'll see that your brain will try to convince you that you really can't – and the more intellectual you are, the more rational excuses your brain will find. But you know, there's nothing you can't do, but there are things you won't do, actions you won't take, and decisions you won't make.
These examples demonstrate the power and authority of linguistic intelligence – being aware of the impact of the words we use – and of linguistic influence – deciding to choose different words that will result in different emotions and behaviors.
Linguistic intelligence is about raising our awareness, making us conscious of our language. Because ultimately, words are the externalization of our emotions, our fears, our beliefs – of our entire inner world.
When we elevate our linguistic intelligence, we become more self-aware, more conscious of the beliefs residing in our unconscious. We can then decide to anchor or challenge beliefs and behavioral patterns, and transform different emotions, beliefs, and behaviors into more powerful options, more aligned with what we want, and who we want to be.
Here's the invitation I extend to you today…
Start paying attention to the words you use and the expressions you regularly utter; what emotions, fears, or beliefs do they convey? What story do you tell yourself about these words or expressions? You will be amazed at what emerges from this simple, yet powerful reflection.
Welcome to the world of linguistic intelligence!
