Stop Using 'Personally'! So How Should You Say It? #241

The true nature of the cushioning phrase 'Personally...'

This phrase, used daily, often functions as a safety net to protect oneself or as a signal for disagreement. While it is a convenient 'softener' when one wants to escape the responsibility of a statement or assert an opinion subtly while reading the room, the hosts sharply point out the risks: frequent use can project a lack of confidence or give the impression that you are treating the subject as someone else's problem.

Tips for mastering the assertive style.

They discuss the importance of speaking directly in meetings by saying, 'I think this.' Especially when sharing personal experiences or anecdotes, removing the prefix 'Personally...' can make your message resonate with greater persuasion. On the other hand, they reveal the nuance of when the phrase should actually be used, such as when referring to specific contexts, showing the depth of choosing one's words carefully. The discussion goes even deeper, so please listen to the full episode to hear the rest.