These words…oh boy. These words. I’m not going to propose we BAN them but I do think they should be used as little as possible. These words have a way of diminishing whatever words they are around. For example:
I’m just doing the 5K.
I ran but it wasn’t far.
I only did a four reps.
Do you see what I mean?
Why is it that we feel like we have to under state our accomplishments?
I know this is a message you hear all the time but there’s a reason. It needs to be said. We need to be reminded that comparison is a bad road to go down. In some cases, it has a way of stifling your desire and motivation. We are all different. Different body types, different fitness levels, different personalities and motivations. Any and all accomplishments are amazing if you worked hard to achieve them.
By using these words, we sell ourselves short and that is tragic. What? Seem like a strong word to use? That’s because I want to get the point across:
goals die when self-confidence dies and that usually happens when doubt happens
Next time you’re talking, pay attention to how often you say those words and how much stronger your statements are (and there by your convictions) when you take them out.
Next time your dreaming, setting goals, or doing anything from the heart, do it whole-heartedly and don’t stop short. Be sure to check out the three things you will never hear me say.
Consider this my personal challenge to you this week and come back and report your findings.
- How many times did you use these words?
- Did you take them out?
- How did you feel when DIDN’T say them?
I agree! These words, along with “sorry,” (unless you really need to apologize) should really be limited in our vocabulary.
Debbie @ Coach debbie runs recently posted…I’m Traveling to Kentucky for Meatless Monday!
I had no idea until I read that article and tracked my JUSTS how often I used the word as a softener too.
and how RARELY my male friends did.
CARLA recently posted…The way you do one thing is the way you do EVERYthing.
I’m with Carla – the Justs – were everywhere in my vocabulary until I read that article.
Angela @ happy fit mama recently posted…5 Ways to Be the Best Race Spectator
I totally agree with and am guilty of this- I ran 15 miles on Saturday with a hangover…but it was really slow. ERM I still ran 15 miles!!!
charlie recently posted…Chicago Marathon Training Week 7
Absolutely love this!!!
Julie @ Girl on the Move recently posted…100 Day Change
I know I use them more than I should.
I love this. I am so guilty of using these words too often. Thank you for putting some motivation into my Monday,
Kayla @ Blondes have more run recently posted…Goji Cashew Date Balls
love this! you’re so right! they definitely diminish whatever it is you’re trying to say!
Linz @ Itz Linz recently posted…end of summer weekend
This is a great post – and reminder! I’m trying really hard to cut out “just”… I just wanted to say, I just wanted to tell you, etc.
melody @ {will run for margaritas} recently posted…conversations with Mr. President
Yes! I find myself saying “it’s just a sprint triathlon” when two years ago that was my huge, big, lifechanging goal. Or “it’s just a 10K” when I should not say “Just” at all! Good reminder.
Cynthia @ You Signed Up For WHAT?! recently posted…Running, Triathlon Training, and {Mostly} Rocking It
I couldn’t agree more!!
I even watch this in my professional communications. “I just wanted to follow up” <– NO MORE!
Ange @ Cowgirl Runs recently posted…Marathon Training Recap
Sorry is one that I use way too much. I totally agree with all of them and I definitely use them too much. I need to learn to toot my own horn more often instead of using these! Thanks for the reminder!
Sue @ This Mama Runs for Cupcakes recently posted…MCM Training Recap–Week 4