Did you know that the words you use can make you appear powerless and look like a victim? It’s so important to choose your words carefully. You’ll be more likely to succeed with the right choices. After all, victims are rarely successful. And if they are, they aren’t happy or enjoying their achievement.
I picked some of my favorite examples to share with you. First, try the substitution and notice how different saying the words feels in your body. That’s a clear indication of whether you feel strong or weak.
Let’s go!
1. Stop saying, “I have to.” Instead, choose “I get to…” or, even better, “I want to….” For example, “I have to go to the gym.” It sounds like going to the gym is punishment and no one wants that. However, if you say, “I get to go to the gym” or “I want to go to the gym,” it sounds as if you’re making yourself a priority.
2. Stop saying, “I can’t.” Instead, choose “I don’t want to….”
3. Stop saying “I should,” as it sounds like an obligation. Instead, say “I want to” or “I get to.” As in the previous example, the change in words makes you sound more powerful.
4. Stop saying “I’m trying,” as it seems you’ll never get there. Instead, leave that word out. For example, “I’m trying to work on this project.” Change to “I’m working on this project.” It puts you in place of forward-moving action and is more powerful.
5. Stop saying, “I’m sorry.” People use that phrase repeatedly, so the words have become tiresome and have no meaning. If you sincerely are sorry, then make an authentic apology. However, if most cases, you can rephrase the words. For example, “I’m sorry for being late” change to “Thank you for waiting for me” to show appreciation for the other person. It still doesn’t make it right that you were late.
6. Stop saying “just,” as this minimizes what you have to say. “I just want to ask a question” or “I just wanted to check-in.” Simply stop saying “just” and let your words become more powerful.
7. Stop saying “but.” This is one of my favorites and one I’m continually working on. When you say “but,” it negates what you said previously in that sentence. For example, if you said, “I received a raise, but it was only 5%,” it makes your raise not sound worthy. This is because the focus becomes on the “only 5%”. Instead, simply say, “I received a raise,” which becomes a cause for celebration.
While we’re here together, a bonus tip for you is to stop saying, “Can I ask you a question?”. Simply ask your question. You don’t need permission to do so.
Those examples are a few of my favorites.
Set some time aside today and think about the words you’re choosing. Start with one word to change. You might even print up this ezine to keep the information in front of you. My favorite methods for faster results are mindset techniques (tapping, neuroscience, and other resources I’m an expert in) and the appropriate strategies. If you need help, reach out.
Be Brilliant,
International Speaker | Best-Selling Author |
Breakthrough Success Expert | Leading Mindset Expert | Award-Winning Strategist | Private Coaching
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