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Ice Chip #351
Remember the Ice 2.0 focuses on taking the concept BETTER Word Choice to another level.
Here is an example of that.
Most of us know about using the “but” —used to introduce a statement that adds something to a previous statement and usually contrasts with it in some way.
Here is an example.
“You did a nice job on that project, but there were a couple of areas that could have been better.”
Generally, when we hear a “but” directed at us, we prepare for a defense of some kind. Think about it.
How many times have you enjoyed hearing a “but” come your way? My guess is… zero.
Recently I overheard a friend of mine commenting on her efforts on a large project. There was no “but”, however, she said: “I went ahead and did it anyway, even though I knew better.
When I watched her reaction after saying “even though”, I realized this was a new addition to the growing list of “(K)notty Words” and “(K)notty Phrases”.
Her posture became defensive and there was an air of self-imposed criticalness.
Words are powerful tools. Instead of putting herself in a position of “knowing better”, she could have done what she knew was the next right thing, in the first place, and avoided her self-imposed criticism.
Moral of the story, most of the time we already know what is “the next right thing.” We just need to follow through.
Empowering Regards,
Bob
