Language dictates thought and action. The words you use change the way that you look at the world and your role in it. The more we sharpen our language and make positive word choices, the stronger our minds become.
Here are 5 words and phrases to eliminate to ensure that we are performing at our best every day and giving ourselves the best chance to succeed.
1) JUST – Just is typically a word that we use to downplay our own effort or responsibility. I’ve said it a million times. I’m “just a teacher.” What does “Just” do? It lets you off the hook. It allows you to shift responsibility or blame by saying you could only do so much.
When you eliminate the word just, you empower yourself. I’m not “just” a teacher. Saying “I am a teacher” has unlimited potential. You are not just a student. You are a student with a world of opportunity. You aren’t just an employee. You didn’t just get a C on a test. Eliminate the word just and own it!
2) SORRY TO BOTHER YOU – It is important to apologize when you have wronged someone. It is equally important to NOT apologize for providing information, asking questions, or speaking up. When you start a sentence with an apology, you have already devalued your words. You have said that your comment requires an apology for even saying it.
There are many alternate phrases you can use to empower your words. Here are some examples. “May I have a minute of your time…” “I would like to add…” “I could use guidance with…” “Let’s figure out a solution for…”
3) MY BAD / MY FAULT – If you use this phrase, back it up with an explanation and an action. Too many people resort to saying my bad or my fault to end a conversation. If you have made a mistake, own it and more importantly, create action steps for how to fix it now or in the future.
Examples: “It was my fault that this happened. I should have done this instead. Next time I will…” “I made a mistake in doing this… Here’s what I will do to resolve the issue.”
4) I DIDN’T HAVE TIME – Let’s face it, yes you did. Accountability leads to improvement where excuses lead to nothing. Instead of saying that you didn’t have time for something, say that it wasn’t a priority. It will give you the opportunity to take an honest look at your priorities and determine how you should spend your time and energy.
5) I’M NOT GOOD AT … – When you say that you aren’t good at something, you are also basically saying that you won’t attempt to ever be good at it. It’s the white flag of surrender. I hear this a lot for certain subject areas. “I’m just not good at math.” “I’m not a good reader.”
Let’s change that phrase to something that allows you to improve instead of blocking your growth. “I’m working on…” “I’m looking forward to improving at…” You don’t have to be the best at everything, but you DO have to be willing to work towards being the best at anything.