🙌 Language for Leaders: The Power of Words in Leadership

Words matter. As leaders, the language we choose shapes the emotional environment of our schools, inspires action, and fosters inclusion. For years, I’ve studied how great leaders use specific language to bring people together and create certainty. It’s a principle we teach in our instructor training program because the right words have the power to inspire and transform.

Here’s why your language is a leadership superpower—and how to use it effectively, with actionable examples under each point.

1. Build Certainty with Positive Framing

Leaders thrive on certainty, and your team and students crave it. Replace hesitant phrases like “I think” or “We’ll try” with decisive language like “We will” or “Here’s the plan.”

Examples:

1. Instead of: “We’ll try to start on time.”
   Say: “Class starts promptly at 5:00. Be ready to crush it!”

2. Instead of: “I think this drill might help.”
   Say: “This drill will help sharpen your footwork and timing.”

3. Instead of: “Hopefully, this will work.”
   Say: “This is the strategy that will take us to the next level.”

Why? Certainty removes doubt. When you communicate with confidence, people trust you more and are motivated to follow your lead.

2. Foster Inclusion with “We” Language

Great leaders know it’s not about me—it’s about we. Inclusive language fosters unity and collaboration. Simple word swaps can make everyone feel like they’re part of a team working toward the same goal.

Examples:

1. Instead of: “I need you to work harder.”
   Say: “We’re going to push together to make this our best class yet.”

2. Instead of: “I came up with this idea.”
   Say: “We brainstormed this idea as a team.”

3. Instead of: “This is my school’s success.”
   Say: “This is our success, and we earned it together.”

Why? The word we reminds people that they’re part of something bigger. It shifts the focus from individual effort to collective progress.

3. Inspire Action with Empowering Words

Motivation comes from how people feel when they hear your words. Use language that inspires confidence and effort rather than highlighting shortcomings or failures.

Examples:

1. Instead of: “Don’t mess this up.”
   Say: “You’ve got this. I know you’ll make it happen.”

2. Instead of: “That’s not good enough.”
   Say: “You’re so close—let’s refine this one part to make it perfect.”

3. Instead of: “You need to fix this.”
   Say: “Here’s how you can make this even better.”

Why? Empowering words focus on potential and capability, reinforcing a growth mindset. It primes your team and students to rise to the occasion.

4. Use Gratitude to Reinforce Positive Behaviors

Gratitude is a powerful tool for leaders. When you express appreciation, you reinforce the behavior you want to see more of. But it’s not just about saying thank you—it’s about being specific.

Examples:

1. Instead of: “Thanks for helping today.”
   Say: “Thank you for leading the warm-up. You set a great example with your energy.”

2. Instead of: “Great job, everyone.”
   Say: “Team, your focus during sparring today was incredible. It raised the bar for the whole class.”

3. Instead of: “I appreciate you.”
   Say: “I appreciate how you stayed after class to help clean up. That shows true leadership.”

Why? Specific gratitude shows that you’re paying attention and that their efforts matter. This builds a culture of recognition and positivity.

5. Replace Criticism with Constructive Feedback

Criticism shuts people down; constructive feedback helps them grow. The way you frame correction determines whether it’s received as a lesson or a personal attack.

Examples:

1. Instead of: “You’re doing it wrong.”
   Say: “Try shifting your foot this way—it’ll make your kick even stronger.”

2. Instead of: “That’s not how it’s done.”
   Say: “Here’s another way to approach this move that will improve your form.”

3. Instead of: “You’re not paying attention.”
   Say: “Let’s refocus and walk through this step together.”

Why? Constructive feedback focuses on improvement rather than failure. It keeps students and staff engaged and motivated to learn.

6. Eliminate Uncertainty with Action-Oriented Statements

Uncertainty breeds hesitation. As a leader, your job is to remove it by giving clear, action-oriented guidance.

Examples:

1. Instead of: “We’ll see if this works.”
   Say: “Here’s how we’ll make this work.”

2. Instead of: “Let’s figure something out.”
   Say: “Here’s the plan we’ll execute today.”

3. Instead of: “Do your best.”
   Say: “Here’s what I need you to focus on right now.”

Why? Action-oriented language creates momentum and focus. It tells your team exactly what’s next, leaving no room for doubt.

7. Always Speak to the Why

When people understand the why behind what they’re doing, they feel more connected to their actions. Use language to tie daily tasks to a greater purpose.

Examples:

1. Instead of: “We need to get through this drill.”
   Say: “This drill is building the precision you’ll need for your next belt test.”

2. Instead of: “Keep practicing this move.”
   Say: “Mastering this technique will give you an edge in your next sparring session.”

3. Instead of: “Do it again.”
   Say: “Repetition now is what makes champions later.”

Why? Connecting actions to a bigger purpose fuels motivation and engagement. People need to feel that their work matters.

Putting It All Together: Leadership in Action

Leadership isn’t just about knowing the right techniques—it’s about how you communicate them. By choosing words that build certainty, inspire action, and foster inclusion, you can create a culture where your team and students thrive.

Try using these techniques during your next class or meeting. Pay attention to the emotional responses you get. You’ll quickly see how the right language can make all the difference in building trust, unity, and excellence.

Remember, great leaders don’t just speak—they inspire. Let your words lead the way.

Here’s what’s Kickin’ on Social This Week…

This week’s social posts bring you a mix of practical drills, inspiring insights, and a bit of humor to keep you motivated. Check out what’s buzzing in the martial arts community, and don’t forget to like, comment, and share to spread the love!

Supercharge Your Balance - Dave Kovar
Discover a simple yet effective drill from Dave Kovar to enhance balance and stability in your students. Perfect for all ages and skill levels.
👉 Watch the Reel

Master Yourself First - Jadi Tention
Jadi Tention shares powerful insights on why self-mastery is the cornerstone of becoming a great leader.
👉 Read More

The Biggest Downfall of CEOs - Kelly Murray
Kelly Murray dives into the #1 pitfall that holds martial arts school owners back—and what to do about it.
👉 Read More

Nail the 540 Kick
Want to add some flair to your classes? Check out this step-by-step tutorial to help students master the iconic 540 kick.
👉 Watch the Reel

It’s Harder Than It Looks - Be Patient with New Skills
This funny reel is a great reminder that mastering new techniques takes time—and that’s okay! Share it with your students to inspire patience and perseverance.
👉 Watch the Reel

Martial Arts Memes: Video Edition 🎥

This week, we’re kicking it up a notch with a lineup of hilarious and relatable martial arts videos. These gems will have you laughing, nodding in agreement, and maybe even sharing with your team and students. Dive in, enjoy the laughs, and let us know your favorite! 😄👊!

@chaleira52

#Meme #MemeCut #CapCut how I feel about #martialarts #whocanrelate #martialartist #MartialTok #TikTok #FYP #Viral had to jump in on this ... See more

@fightingdad_

Which is the best martial art? #mma #martialarts #memes

@kmrndoesmemes

#meme #martialarts #fy #fypage #fypシ