The weight of words

We don’t just travel light and right, we speak right too. Why? because we believe in packing with purpose, whether it’s in our suitcase or our sentences.

Lets take the word “lady” as an example

It sounds harmless. Even sweet.

But like a pair of heels on a hiking trail, it’s out of step with the terrain we’re walking now.

“Lady” often comes with layers we didn’t choose like the expectations to be graceful, quiet, nice, non-disruptive.

“Woman,” on the other hand, is simple, strong, and unapologetically direct. It doesn’t ask for approval or permission it just stands.

Our co-founder @ingridLotze first came across this shift at Woman Within International Ltd and now, in spaces like PSASA and Story to Stage, the classic “Ladies and Gentlemen” introduction to a talk is being swapped out for more inclusive, intention-led greetings.

The words we use either include or exclude and they can either weigh us down with old meanings or make space for something new. So if we’re serious about living with less clutter and more connection, we need to let go of the language that no longer fits.

If you're feeling bold, try these instead of “Ladies and Gentlemen” next time there is an opportunity:

·     Good morning everyone

·     Listeners, learners, leaders

·     Hello earthlings and legends

·     Fellow rebels, rule-breakers, and relentless optimists

And the most appropriate for 7t-shirtseach:

·     Hello wanderers and wonderers

When we stop speaking out of habit and start speaking with heart, us Muppets, misfits, and masterminds don’t just communicate better, we connect deeper.

Words matter and so for us it is about packing words that move, not those that drag.

#NoSpaceForJustInCase™ #CarryLessAndLiveMore #IntentionalLanguage #CurateYourLife #PackLightSpeakRight #DigitalNomadWisdom #LiveWithIntention #WordsMatter Gavin Moffat Ingrid Lotze