So perhaps I'm cheating because I took the title of today's post from my home page. But I really meant that when I wrote it and placed it on that particular page, so I think it bears repeating.

Words have power.

To see that in action, look no further than last week's election. I think we can all agree that the vitriolic campaigning and media coverage led to one of the most bitter, inflammatory elections we've seen in recent history. There was name calling on both sides, and people continue to riot and protest.

But one of the most intriguing factors, which I think has been overlooked, was their campaign slogans. Here they are:

"Stronger together"

"Make America great again"

Now just on the basis of those two statements, which one is more compelling? Cast aside your political leanings, and honestly answer which one has the strongest, clearest call-to-action?

I firmly believe the second one is more powerful. It's not as vague and it has a more positive slant. The action is simple and the result is clear. It plays on our sense of nostalgia for the "good old days" and offers a promise of better things to come.

Now I am certainly no political pundit so I don't want to engage in a debate as to why the election turned out the way it did, but I can certainly offer my opinion as a copywriter on their slogans. And maybe, just maybe, that second slogan resonated more strongly with the American public.

What you say matters. As attention spans continue to shrink and we are constantly bombarded by a shifting series of messages, it's critical to stand out from the crowd. People want more than a replay, they want to be part of the story. They want to feel something. Do something. Be something.

As you are looking to spread your own message, pay close attention to the words you use and the message you craft. Are you selling a vague promise? Or really offering someone the chance to be part of something great and do their part to make the world a little better?

It's not always hard to play up to people's passions ... but it can be trickier to get them to do something about it. Choose your words carefully and be clear about what you want people to do and how their actions will impact their communities. Offer concrete examples of how they can help change a life.

Every time you take your pen in hand or sit before your keyboard, think carefully about your words and use your power wisely.