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Today’s Five Minute Friday episode is a bit more personal because I truly believe that business success is deeply intertwined with our mental game. How we show up every day, tackle our to-do lists, and feel about ourselves at the end of the day plays a crucial role in our performance. I want to share six words and phrases that I believe you should rethink or update in your daily vocabulary. These insights have helped me immensely, and I hope they can help you too.

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The Power of “I Am”

The most powerful words in your vocabulary are “I am.” Whatever follows “I am” becomes your reality. If you journal, try noting what you say after “I am” for a few days. Are you saying things like “I am always late” or “I am not good at that”? These negative statements shape your reality. Instead, affirm positive things: “I am capable,” “I am confident,” “I am strong.” Encourage your family and team to do the same. The impact will be significant.

Eliminate “Need”

The word “need” creates a sense of lack. When you say, “I need to think about it” or “I need to do that,” you’re often letting yourself off the hook. Replace “need” with words that reflect commitment and accountability.

Ditch “Should”

“Should” reflects inaction. When you say, “I should do that,” you often mean “I won’t do that.” This word keeps you in a state of indecision and procrastination. Commit to actions instead by saying “I will” or “I am going to.”

Avoid “Want”

“Want” implies a gap between where you are and where you want to be. It creates a sense of longing without action. Instead of saying, “I want to learn that,” say, “I am learning that” or “I am working on that.” This shift can help close the gap and move you towards your goals.

Transform “I Can’t” and “It Won’t”

The phrases “I can’t” and “It won’t” shut down creativity and possibility. Instead, turn them into questions: “How can I afford it?” or “How could it work?” This simple change sparks curiosity and opens up opportunities.

Be Intentional with Your Words

The words we choose have a profound impact on our mindset and actions. Negative thoughts are seven times more powerful than positive ones, and spoken words are ten times more powerful than thoughts. By being intentional with our language, we can shift from negativity to neutrality or even positivity.

Homework: A Word Study

I challenge you to do a word study. Take a journal and note the words and phrases you use regularly. Pay attention to what your family, team, and even your kids are saying. Then, make a conscious effort to flip negative or neutral words into positive and powerful ones. It’s not about becoming overly positive but about being intentional with your language.

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