Book launched at FCCU emphasises importance of using positive words
Ms Anita Saleem’s book “Words: spoken and unspoken forces” was launched at a well-attended ceremony in Forman Christian College University on Tuesday.
The author, also a faculty member at FCCU acknowledged how her training and experience in Clinical Psychology led her to write a book on the importance of using positive words.
Speaking at the occasion, Dr Tariq Rahman, Dean, School of Education at BNU, said that the book is most relevant in the Pakistani context since there is such a lot of negativity around us. He commended the author and pointed how difficult it is for a first time author get their book printed.
The chief guest at the occasion, Mr Arif Nizami, Editor, Pakistan Today, spoke on the importance of choosing the ‘best fit’ words to explain situations. He also pointed out that it is the media’s responsibility to use appropriate words while reporting events. “Media uses the power of words to influence people’s thoughts, emotions and behaviours therefore it is very important that media persons understand the significance of using the right words to describe events,” he said.
In a panel discussion, Dr Imran Ijaz Haider, Head, Department of Psychiatry at Fatima Memorial Hospital, emphasized that to live positively, one must think positively since thoughts have an enormous influence on well being. He also shared some experiences from his clinical experience.
Dr CJ Dubash, Vice Rector Intermediate, FCCU, reiterated that teachers must use words with caution since the words they use can affect student’s lives for good or for worse. He highly recommended the book for educationists.
Ms Ravale Mohydin, a counselling psychologist, spoke about the impact of positive statements, optimism and mindfulness on building personal relationships, parenting and teaching based on her experience. The book launch was moderated by Dr Yaqoob Khan Bangash, chairperson, Department of History at FCCU.
In her concluding remarks, Anita Saleem pointed out that negative thinking comes naturally in us but positive thinking requires an effort. She stated that in order to stay positive and speak positive during times of chaos, one must make a conscious effort. She also pointed out that thoughts (unspoken words) are as important as speech (spoken words) and must be used with caution as they have the potential to shape emotions, affect underlying physiology and eventually influence the behaviour of individuals. “It is therefore important that individuals use words wisely so as to uplift and encourage each other. This is the only way that we can progress as a nation.”