Long before I ever had my first article published in the Florida Times-Union years ago, I said that I was a writer. I spoke it, I believed it and I claimed it. I knew that writing is what I was born to do and the truth is, I’d been writing since I was a very young girl in school.

As a writer, it is a wonderful thing to see your written words in print for others to read. However, my only audience long ago were my sisters and my parents who patiently listened as I read the words I’d written from my imagination. Much later, when asked what kind of work I did, before I even realized it, the words “I’m a writer” flowed from my lips without hesitation or forethought. Although I didn’t realize it at the time, I was actually speaking my destiny into creation. I was telling the universe who I was and I was embracing it with passion, wonder, excitement and a bit of fear. Yes, to actually become who you say you are is a bit scary…at first. The universe actually opened up and agreed with me and a writer took form, just as the characters in my childhood stories had. God and his incredible universe had nodded in my direction and given me the green light. And so my journey began.

The power of words should never be underestimated. The bible tells us in Proverbs 18:21 that “There is life or death in the power of the tongue and those who love it will eat its fruit.”  In Matthew 12:13 Jesus says, “For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”  What this means to me is that it is important to watch the words that we speak from our mouths. We can either choose to speak life into our lives, or speak failure and disappointment. Whichever we chose to speak, we’re going to be correct.

When you look at yourself in the mirror, who do you see? Do you see someone who is successful, happy, loving and living your truth? How do you speak about yourself to yourself? If you’re saying things like, “I’m a failure or an idiot,” or “I’ll never have the things that I want or be the person who I want to be,” then, once again, you’re correct. The universe has ears and it’s listening to everything that you say. I said I was a writer and that is exactly who I’ve become. It was never about “finding” myself, it has always been about “creating” myself. There’s a difference.

Self talk should be honest, forgiving, gentle and empowering. No doubt that there are days when this is easier said than done! I can testify to that. But what matters is what you really believe about yourself and your potential. Be clear on what your definition of success is.  For me, it was never about having a lot of money, although I wouldn’t be opposed to that idea at all. It isn’t about being the best writer on the planet, because I’m not. But I’m thankful that I’m living my own truth as much as possible – I am doing the thing that makes me the happiest – writing. For me, this is success.

Speak life, love, peace, good health and your definition of success into your life. Speak your truth into the universe and then be prepared to see it manifest. When given the chance, always speak life!