Table of Contents
The Words Holding You Back from Purpose & How to Break Free
“So step one is the words.”
That simple statement from former SWAT officer Justin Atherton echoes louder than most motivational speeches. In a conversation packed with real talk, Justin pulls back the curtain on one of the most overlooked enemies of men walking in their God-given purpose: the words we use.
In a recent episode of March or Die, Justin sat down with Sean Kennard to unpack a powerful truth: the words we say, and the ones we believe, can either anchor us in fear or launch us into purpose.
The Self-Talk That Sabotages
Many men never step into their God-given calling because they’ve been programmed to speak defeat over themselves:
- “I’m not good enough.”
- “This is just who I am.”
- “I’ll never change.”
Justin calls these “limiting language loops” phrases we’ve inherited from trauma, culture, or our own insecurity. And he warns that unless we identify and challenge them, they will shape our reality.
“If you say ‘I’m overwhelmed’ every day, you’re going to live overwhelmed. But what if you said ‘I’m equipped’ instead?”
Words Matter Because the Word Matters
Scripture is clear: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21). Justin’s transformation began when he aligned his words with God’s Word. Instead of leaning on self-help slogans, he started replacing lies with biblical truth:
- “I’m not enough” became “God’s grace is sufficient” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
- “I’ll never change” became “I’m a new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
- “I’m too broken” became “He restores my soul” (Psalm 23:3)
This isn’t just positive thinking. It’s renewing your mind (Romans 12:2) and reclaiming your identity in Christ.
From SWAT to Self-Leadership
After leaving law enforcement, Justin didn’t retire; he re-wired his life around purpose. Now, he teaches men how to lead themselves before trying to lead others.
His message is simple: Don’t just monitor your actions. Audit your language.
“You’ll never live a life of faith while speaking a language of fear.”
Break Free and March Forward
This episode isn’t just a conversation. It’s a wake-up call for any man trapped by the words he’s been repeating for years.
If you’re ready to live with purpose, speak with power, and believe what God says about you this is where the march begins.
Watch now on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform:
Watch the full interview with Justin Atherton
