Word Power: 10 Phrases Women Should Stop Saying

Your speech says a lot about how you present yourself. If you swear or present yourself in a rude manner, that’s what people will assume. The way you speak can show people a side of you they don’t know and reveal who you are. As such, you should avoid certain phrases so that you can boost your confidence as well as your presence.

Like

It was popular, and people began saying it in every sentence. It was considered the cool thing to do, and when you talk to someone now, you’ll probably catch yourself saying it a few times. Verbal and career coaches have said that this word makes you sound unprofessional and that it presents a lack of sophistication.

I’m Sorry

Think carefully about how many times you say you’re sorry in a day. On average, it’s suggested that women apologize far more than people think. It could stem from a people-pleasing personality, a nurturing nature, or guilt; it makes you seem like a pushover, and it can appear insincere because you apologize for everything. You should only apologize when you’ve genuinely done something wrong.

So

So, it is a filler word. If you want to sound more articulate, it’s important to avoid using filler words to start a sentence. The best trick to avoid falling into this is to practice thinking before you open your mouth. It helps you organize your thoughts, and you’ll speak less.

I Hate My Body

If a woman truly thought this or said it aloud, many people would be horrified and feel sad. You shouldn’t say things like this because it invites people to focus on your body, make judgments, and it can cause you to have an unhealthy obsession with your appearance and your body.

I’m Not An Expert

If someone is asking you to perform a triple bypass or build a bridge, it’s alright to say you’re not an expert. In professional situations, people know what you’re an expert in. While you still have an opinion and can speak freely, you shouldn’t feel the need to remind people of your status.

I Need To Be Honest

Many times, women say this before sharing an opinion. The problem with this is what it makes people think. If you say things like this, it makes you seem hesitant or like you’re a liar, and it implies that you haven’t been honest in previous dealings. If you pause after saying this, it may also raise suspicions about whether your character is morally strong.

I Don’t Know How

Before you say this about anything, assess whether you actually know how to do what someone is asking you to do. Automatically saying this not only discredits and dismisses your own ability, but it also lowers expectations and people’s confidence in you. Successful people don’t let others know if they can’t do something; they seize opportunities and try things even if they can’t do them.

Does That Make Sense

It might seem like an innocent statement, but it signals that you doubt your own words. It also discredits your explanation before this. It shows a lack of conviction in your wording, and it’s not a good look. If you feel you must say something, try, “Is everyone following me?”

I Can Try

Saying that you’ll try shows a serious lack of confidence in your own abilities. There are a variety of ways that you can convey strength and trust in yourself. Try saying “I can do that,” or “I’ll get started right away.” This communicates inner confidence, and people will trust that you know what you’re doing.

If Only

The statements that usually follow these words are things like “thought about that sooner,” or “had the ability to do that.” Sentences like these have a negative connotation. They make it seem like you’re not worthy. Belittling yourself only gives others the opportunity to say these things about you, too. Let yourself feel empowered and strong so that you can feel it, and others can see it.

Speaking Clearly

When you speak clearly and with conviction, people listen because you sound confident and strong. Instead of people doubting you, they’ll trust you. Avoiding the phrases on this list will show people that you can speak eloquently, avoid slang, and hold a conversation. It’s the best way to show someone that you’re professional.

 

Posted by Jenifer Dale