You’ve probably heard this quote before, you may have even been the one saying it, but what does “actions speak louder than words” really mean? According to the online Cambridge dictionary, the English definition of “actions speak louder than words” is: what you do is more important than what you say, because the things you do show your true intentions and feelings: Team USA is not expected to win, but they believe actions speak louder than words.
In other words, what you do to someone or something can have more impact on that person than what you say or think. Physical actions can have a powerful effect on someone (take a look at our recent post about the benefits of hugging). How are actions more powerful than words? Here are just a few examples:
- Where words fail, actions can be the way you show your loved one how much you care.
- In times of sorrow or depression, a simple smile or a shoulder to cry on is often appreciated.
- You can show kindness to someone by offering a ride home, a free meal, or a gift.
- You can show empathy to someone by nodding, frowning, or smiling along with them.
- You can hint to someone you fancy them by mimicking their movements or gently touching them.
- Body language is another way people “act” and is often a telltale sign of what someone is thinking or feeling.
There are many other ways you can show compassion, kindness, love, happiness, and so on through your actions.
Actions can also have a negative effect if done incorrectly. For example, if someone hugs you with limp arms and a scowl on their face, the action will not be received as well as someone who hugs you with passion and a snug embrace. When you want to show someone you care or show kindness through actions instead of words, there are three steps you can do to make sure your action is as powerful as can be:
- Act – The first step is the physical act (for example, the act of giving your spouse flowers).
- Be Sincere – Your mind, body, etc. should genuinely want to do the action. If you are doing the action half-heartedly it will project outward, and the act will lose some of its value.
- Be Present – Your body language, thoughts, etc. should all be in the moment. Be present and mindful of your action and of how your action is being received.
What are some ways you show your loved ones you care? What are some ways you have shown kindness to others through actions? Let us know in the comments, or find us on Facebook or Twitter. We’d love to hear from you!
Blissings, Dena
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