Carmen Varner is a San Diego-based writer who writes about food, drinks, travel, and lifestyle.

Some people don't understand my love for books and language, but to me words are some of the most important things we have. Words are beautiful, because they represent beautiful, powerful things. If you can hear a word and see it's meaning appear right there in front of you, that's something magical. If you can use a word to convey something you can't quite explain, that's a connection. These words do that.

Our words have the ability to influence how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. So what are the most empowering words we can use?

In English, "very" is used extensively as an adverb to emphasize that something is of a high degree or intensity. However, there are many single words that can be used to say the same thing more effectively.

Vivid Verbs

The words we choose to use carry significant weight. However, the tone of voice, with which we deliver these words, often holds even more

Some people like to pick a Word-of-the-Year as their form of New Year's resolution. It sets an intention for your year. Here's a list to help you get started thinking about your word(s) for 2021. For more on how to use these words: https://annsilvers.com/blogs/news/200-word-of-the-year-power-words-for-your-new-year-goals

#1. A pretty, neutral living room. #2. A good list. #3. FYI. . . Pottery Barn now sells horizontal striped curtains in three colors. #4. A built-in desk to make the most of office space in a bay window. (And, a great home tour.) #5. One of my favorite pins of the Read More