The Ten Pathways of Positive Speech

1. Speak No Evil. Say only positive statements. Let words of kindness be on your tongue.

2. Hear No Evil. Refuse to listen to gossip, slander and other negative forms of speech.

3. Don't Rationalize Destructive Speech. Excuses like "But it's true" or "I'm only joking" or "I can tell my spouse or best friend anything" just don't cut it.

4. See No Evil. Judge people favorably, the way you would want them to judge you.

5. Beware of Speaking Evil Without Saying an Evil Word. Body language and even positive speech can bring tremendous destruction.

6. Be Humble, Avoid Arrogance. These will be your greatest weapons against destructive speech.

7. Beware of Repeating Information. Loose lips sink ships. Even positive information needs permission before being repeated.

8. Honesty Really Is the Best Policy. Be careful to always tell the truth, unless it will hurt others, break your own privacy or publicize your accomplishments.

9. Learn to say "I'm Sorry." Everyone makes mistakes. If you've spoken badly about someone, clear it up immediately.

10. Forgive. If you have been wronged, let it go.