12 Words and Phrases That Automatically Kill Your Self Image

12 Words and Phrases That Automatically Kill Your Self Image

Dangerous Words = Spurious spacers , Wimpy words

Spurious spacers are fillers that we put into speeches to fill the gaps when we are nervous or have to think about the next word to say. Repetitive use of these words can become pesky and annoying.

words to watch out
"Um...", "Err..."
"Like..."
"Actually.."
"Really.."
"Right"
"Typically"

The next time you are in the audience at someone else's demo or presentation, keep track of how many times the presenter says one particular spacer, such as "like" or "you know." You may be astonished to find the number of uses of the spacer, is nearly double the number of sentences delivered.

Wimpy words express a sense of ambiguity, lack of definition and increase perceived complexity.


words to watch out
"You know?"
"Know what I mean?"
"As you can see..."
"Sort of", "Kind of"
"Hopefully..."
"Needless to say…"

Tips to overcome the habit

1. If you can admit to yourself that you are one of those people who say such words, you can be more conscience in your conversations. List down the words you repeatedly use. Force awareness upon yourself. It might take a while for you to get over the habit. Keep noticing, until you stop!

2. Ask your loved ones and friends to help out.

Is it wrong to use these words? (My two cents)

However, in a "professional context" using these words can lead to career suicide. For example, when making a presentation or speaking to a client, we are compelled to portray a professional image. Using words like "sort of", "kind of" might imply that we are not being thorough.
The problem lies in switching from a "friendly" atmosphere to a "professional" atmosphere. After all, habit is a habit! How do you force yourself into awareness in one instance, and let loose, in another instance

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With Love & Patience, Everything is Possible.
Regards,
Zahra