1. “I am …” The most powerful words that exist.
Far from merely stating a feeling or condition, these two powerful words actually create them. Be especially conscious of what you add to “I am.” Catch yourself saying these. “I’m so upset. I’m annoyed. I’m sure they’ll say no. I’m scared. I’m sick and tired of … ” Switch and verbalize these instead. “I’m able. I am well. I’m feeling good about this. I’m very pleased. I’m open to discussing …”
2. “I will.”
Intention and willingness spill out from “I will.” You are willing to make the time to tend to someone or something. When you say it to yourself, you affirm your capability and set your mind to doing the task. When you say it to someone, it is synonymous to “Consider it done.” Do not take these powerful words lightly. Your credibility at work and in life increases with every “I will” that you actually accomplish.
3. “I am confident. I believe.”
These powerful words immediately remove doubt. When you are confident, there are no misgivings so you can begin straightaway. In a discussion, notice how the other person smiles and relaxes when you address his concern with “I believe we can do something about this.” The words do not represent commitment. It means you are willing to consider and have sufficient knowledge of the situation to believe compromise is possible.
4. “I understand.”
Are you listening to instructions for a project? Is your colleague venting about city traffic? Are your children complaining because you missed an important school event? The words “I understand” apply to the three scenarios. The first requires comprehension; the second needs a listening ear; and the third calls for a commitment to prioritize your family. “I understand” adds motivation and meaningful connection to your earlier “I will.” It demonstrates empathy (versus “I know,” which can sound dismissive.)
5. “I don’t have the answers, but I will find out.”
This statement of negation spoken with honesty releases the power of a specific intention. Not knowing presents a valuable opportunity to learn something new. Having the courage to admit you don’t have the answers also removes pressure on your team to know everything all the time. Such pressure can push people to pretend, with dire consequences. It’s acceptable not to have the answers, and then learn from it. The next time a similar situation arises, you will definitely know how to respond.
6. “YOU are right. It’s my mistake.”
To honesty, now add humility. Swallowing a piece of humble pie is not easy. People will just as soon point at colleagues, suppliers, clients, the cat, the weather, or the planets rather than admit they are responsible for a problem. These powerful words establish where the responsibility for the problem lies—a big step in finding the solution. Unless someone has the humility to say these words, you can forget about solving any problem. Admitting a mistake is not a sign of weakness but a measure of courage and solid self-concept. The admission that you have contributed to a problem comes with the intent to find a solution. You will gain the respect and loyalty of your team when you take actual responsibility.
7. “Would YOU please?”
Productive overachievers perform well individually but are not always good leaders or team persons. That’s usually because they are perfectionists, reluctant to delegate and unwilling to collaborate. You could be outstanding at numbers 1 through 4 above and have no reason to say number 5 or 6, but you would be missing out on fulfillment from synergy. These powerful words acknowledge other people’s contributions. You gain new perspective and they grow in experience as they perform. It’s about mentoring. Step back and let other team members shine. They will be motivated to realize their potential and you will learn about being a true leader.
8. “I appreciate.”
Thank you, stated sincerely with a smile, can make someone’s day. “I appreciate” has even greater impact. These powerful words can rapidly manifest good things. Say it promptly to someone for something specific and you will motivate her to continue doing well. Apply its creative effect on you with a nightly habit of listing down the things you appreciate each day, and you will become fully aware of the wonderful things in your life here and now. Showing gratitude about something always creates more of the same.
9. “WE can try.”
Hotel expatriate work contracts usually run for two years, and I’ve witnessed these scenarios regularly. A new manager, eager to prove himself, will immediately change existing procedures and implement his way of doing things—even when the old system works just fine. Or he has a really innovative idea but the team—used to doing things the old way—put up a lot of resistance. “We can try” are powerful words that reduce friction in a situation. It involves an attempt to retain existing procedures that work well. It produces a willingness to test new ideas before lining up complaints about how (you think) they won’t work.
10. “Yes, WE can! WE are committed. Expect only the best!”
These powerful words hold a guarantee that a thing simply IS. Its power is found in the collective confidence of your team. Such commitment becomes part of a brand. Its power extends over to public perception and the unquestionable quality associated with the brand and logo. Think of the globally acknowledged quality of Mercedes Benz engineering, Patek Philippe time pieces, and Michelin Star restaurants. “We are committed” represents a powerful challenge and a worthwhile achievement that produces game-changing results. Powerful words draw your reality. What you think and say create your experience. Deliberately choose positive words in thoughts, speech, and with music as you sing about and expect “good things are happening.” Singer songwriter Dan MacKenzie obviously agrees. Featured photo credit: joey zanotti via flickr via flickr.com
