In the realm of personal development and success, the words we choose can significantly impact our mindset and outcomes. There’s one word that I consistently advise my clients to eliminate from their vocabulary: ‘try’. This seemingly innocent word carries a hidden weight that can sabotage our efforts before we even begin.
The Problem with ‘Try’
When we use the word ‘try,’ we’re unconsciously building failure into our intentions. It’s a linguistic safety net that gives us an out before we’ve even started. Think about it: when you say, “I’ll try to do that,” aren’t you really saying, “I might do it, but don’t hold me accountable if I don’t”?
This subtle linguistic shift can have profound effects on our psyche and our actions. By using ‘try,’ we’re giving ourselves permission to not fully commit, and to accept not giving the best we can, and it’s a word that lacks conviction and undermines our potential for success.
The Energy of Commitment
Consider the times in your life when you’ve been truly passionate or determined about something. Did you say you’d ‘try’ to ace that crucial exam? Did you ‘try’ to pursue your dreams? Of course not. In those moments of true commitment, we naturally drop the word ‘try’ and replace it with decisive language: “I will do this.”
This shift in language reflects a shift in energy and intention. When we remove ‘try’ from our vocabulary, we’re forced to confront our true desires and capabilities. We must ask ourselves: Do I really want to do this? Am I willing to commit to this fully?
The Yoda Wisdom
As Yoda famously said, “Do or do not. There is no try.” This isn’t just clever movie dialogue; it’s a profound truth about human psychology and achievement. When we eliminate ‘try’ from our vocabulary, we’re left with two clear options: do or don’t do. This clarity can be uncomfortable, but it’s incredibly powerful.
Embracing Decisive Language
So, you’re now thinking: How do I make this shift? First: awareness. Start by noticing every time you use ‘try’ and when. This awareness of pattern is the first step to rewriting it. With this awareness, you’re equipped with the knowledge of when to catch yourself, which opens up room for you to ask yourself:
1. Do I really want to do this?
2. Am I willing to commit to this fully?
If the answer is yes, then state your intention clearly: “I will do this.” If the answer is no, then be honest with yourself and others: “I won’t do this.”
This practice forces us to be more intentional about our commitments and more honest about our desires. It pushes us to take full responsibility for our actions and decisions.
The Impact of Eliminating ‘Try’
When you remove ‘try’ from your vocabulary, you’ll likely notice a shift in your mindset and your results. You’ll find yourself more committed to your goals, more decisive in your actions, and more likely to follow through on your intentions. This decisive language sets your mind on the path to success, increasing the probability of achieving your desired outcomes.
Of course, there will be times when you’re asked to do something you don’t really want to do. In these situations, don’t hide behind ‘try’. Instead, own your decision. If you don’t want to do it, be honest about it. This authenticity is far more respectable than a half-hearted “I’ll try.”
The elimination of ‘try’ from your vocabulary is a simple yet powerful tool for personal growth and success. It invites you to be more intentional, more committed, and more honest with yourself and others. Starting today, catch yourself when you’re about to use ‘try’ and replace it with decisive language, and watch as your mindset shifts and your outcomes improve.
Remember: you don’t try to live your best life – you live it. No more trying, just doing.
I love this. I found this article quite by chance and it was really helpful to me right at this moment in time. Isn’t life wonderful – Thank you so much.