Be Cautious Using These 5 Words

A critical skill for leaders is the ability to say the right words, at the right time, in the right manner. Conversely, many simply speak in an habitual manner,void of any real awareness of the impact and consequences of their words.

Words create impressions, set expectations and bring closure; there is a direct correlation between the words we use and the results we experience. This is true on the job, at home, and in every other facet of life.

Words Create Consequences: Larry Scherwitz, PhD; a research scientist at UC Berkley, studied six hundred men, two hundred of whom were suffering from heart trouble--the others were healthy. The study included recording the conversations of all the men. Afterwards, Scherwitz counted the number of times each man used the words I, ME and MINE. Predictably, the men who used I, me and mine the most, were the ones experiencing heart trouble. Suggest you take inventory of your words and adjust accordingly. Plus, inclusion always yields greater dividends.

Words Convey Meanings: A word that isn’t very communicative or appealing is AWFUL. As an adjective, it means “extremely bad, unpleasant, ugly.” Perhaps you can find a word or set of words to use in lieu of awful--that will better convey your intentions and help you become a more compelling communicator.

Another benefit from removing the word awful from your vocabulary is the possibility that you will never again use the word AWFULLY, when describing the thoughts, words or deeds of another. As an adverb, it is likely that awfully is more often misused than any other word. Here are a few examples with alternatives:

• She is awfully attractive…she is really/extremely attractive
• He is awfully good at football….he is phenomenal at football.
• They are awfully rich….they are exceptionally rich.
• She is awfully smart…..she is truly smart.
• He is awfully lucky …he is totally lucky.

Banish awful and awfully from your vocabulary and stretch yourself into becoming a person who says what you mean, means what you say, and is aware of the impact of your words.

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