Naming shapes behavior.

The names we give things are not just labels. They are frames. They shape how we see the world, what we pay attention to, and what we believe is possible. A name can be a handle for a complex idea, or it can be a box that limits our thinking.

When we name something, we are making a decision about what matters. We are drawing a boundary around a concept and giving it a distinct identity. This act of naming is an act of power. It is the power to define, to include, and to exclude.

Choose your names with care. A good name can clarify a difficult idea. A bad name can create confusion and mistrust. A name is a small thing, but it has the power to shape behavior on a large scale.

What this changes in practice: When you are trying to change a behavior, start by changing the name. A new name can create a new way of seeing.