Words are powerful! The words you choose send strong messages to the world about who you are and what you are about. Just as important, your words impact YOU! While positive words generally reflect positive thoughts, it is a feedback loop that works multiple ways: Positive words can generate positive energy both in yourself and in others.
“I’ll try” v. “I’m Committed” – I’ll try are two words that can undermine you before you even start. At worst you are perceived as laying the ground work for excusing failure before you even begin, at best you are expressing a lack of confidence in your ability to execute. Where there is a will, there is a way.
“It can’t be done” or “It’s impossible” v. “It will be challenging” – My favorite response is “If you had a Million Dollars (or Billion if you like) would you have a better chance of success?” The answer is generally more positive and I go on to say “Then it’s not impossible, you’ve just got to find a way to do it more economically!” Another approach is to ask about the overarching goal and seek other paths to getting there; all too often folks get locked on about a particular solution that other routes to the goal are overlooked or it turns out that 80% success is quite possible and will suffice just fine, just no one ever asked.
Closing Quotes:
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead, 1901-1978
“Believing in negative thoughts is the single greatest obstruction to success.” – Charles F. Glassman, The Breakthrough That Will Change Your Life
“Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.” – Colin Powell
As always, I share what I most want/need to learn. – Nathan S. Collier
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