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Before I received the diagnosis, I thought there were only two words to express anger:

Not angry and angry.

It was like an on-off switch. There was no middle ground. Either I was hot or not.

When you have a limited vocabulary, your body and mind have a limited way to respond. I believe that the words we use shape our view of the world.

My emotional state changed when I worked with a coach who taught me that there are many words to express anger:

Mild (Cool to Lukewarm)

  • Annoyed
  • Irritated
  • Frustrated
  • Displeased
  • Agitated
  • Put out

Moderate (Warming Up)

  • Upset
  • Bothered
  • Offended
  • Resentful
  • Exasperated
  • Cross
  • Grumpy

Strong (Hot)

  • Angry
  • Mad
  • Indignant
  • Furious
  • Outraged
  • Livid
  • Infuriated

Intense (Boiling Over)

  • Seething
  • Fuming
  • Enraged
  • Incensed
  • Explosive
  • Raging

I never realized there were so many shades of meaning!

Where I used to be “angry,” now I’m just “bothered.” I’m never incensed or enraged, like I used to be.

The same is true with positive words.

Here’s a list of words that tend to inspire hope, warmth, and a sense of possibility. Circle the ones that resonate with you so you can see the world through a new set of words and opportunities.

Hope-Inspiring Words:

  • Possibility
  • Renewal
  • Resilience
  • Light
  • Promise
  • Tomorrow
  • Faith
  • Courage
  • Strength
  • Healing
  • Recovery
  • Awakening
  • Bloom
  • Rise
  • Shine
  • Thrive
  • Forward
  • Transform
  • Peace
  • Grace
  • Belief
  • Trust
  • New beginnings
  • Breakthrough
  • Rebirth
  • Uplift
  • Inspire
  • Dream

Maybe you can find softer words to replace red-hot words that infuriate you or scare you. Maybe those words will help you find peace or hope.

Why not be a believer instead of a doubter?

Dan Janal

Cancer survivor Dan Janal is writing a book, "Reframing Cancer: New Perspectives on Hope, Health, and Healing".

He also works with business and healthcare professionals who want to write a book that builds their businesses as a ghostwriter and book coach

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