12 May 2020
Harmony in the home and at work is boosted by the use of ‘Love Words’. Some love words are expressions of thanks and appreciation. Others convey the deepest feelings of love.
The Billion Child Foundation started a collection of ‘Love Words’ in 2006 when we first developed our Win-Win Parenting Skills Programme.
At every Win-Win Parenting workshop we have invited parents to share the words they use most often or love to hear in their homes.
See whether your favourite or most meaningful words are contained in the list below. If not, please send them to me (click here) so that we can share them with millions of parents around the world in the years to come.
*Well done! * You are so creative * Terrific * Fantastic * You are very thoughtful * Thank you * I trust you * You are a joy * Stupendous * Marvellous * I’m so proud of you * That was ambitious * Let’s try again * Let’s try it together * It’s not your fault * You are generous * Great * You make me smile * You’re a great artist * You are super * You’re on your way * I appreciate your … * You are really growing * I am so happy for you * I like the way you handled that * Thank you for your honesty * You are not alone * Outstanding * Congratulations * You can do it * You have a terrific sense of humour * That took a lot of patience * You deserve it * I forgive you * You are courageous * You are independent * Give it a try * You are so bright * I’m sorry * Please join us * Let’s try it! * I see real improvement * You tried your best * Wonderful! * I see you like to explore * You’re clever * You are my sunshine * You are perfect * I love you just the way you are * I respect your privacy * Great idea * That was original * I love your imagination * You’re a great athlete * I love to hear you sing * You are a good friend * It’s okay to make mistakes * You are very observant * You are a good listener * You’re growing up * I have confidence in your judgement * Thanks for helping * You are so special * You are making progress * You’ve discovered the secret * That’s incredible * You’re unique * You belong * Nothing can stop you now * You really tried * Now you’re flying * Well done * How did you do that * You’re doing it * Bingo * Bravo * I like your work * You’re important * You’re a winner * Exceptional performance * You are getting it right * You are making progress * I love you *
Some parents have called using these words as ‘The language of love’.
Children are highly motivated by their parents showing approval through appreciative eye contact, a special look or signal which they share such as looking pleased and excited, by beaming with pride, love words, by a special hug or by squeezing their hands.
Why not look for opportunities to use these at home and at work. Providing you use the words genuinely to express your emotions, you will enrich your relationships and enhance your reputation for being fair, kind, predictable and consistent. Something as small as ‘generous conversation’ can boost your mood and spread good vibes to those around you.