Intelligent people never say these 16 phrases because they know that words are powerful and cannot be retrieved once spoken. Sometimes, verbal slip-ups occur, because we say things without being aware of the subtle implications they carry. Understanding these implications requires social awareness – the ability to pick up on the emotions and experiences of other people.
For this reason, intelligent people never say these 16 phrases!
Smart people use words sparingly and also choose the words and phrases that best portray their message to give the desired response. The following phrases have the ability to make you look bad – even when the words are true.
By avoiding these phrases, you’ll improve your communication skills instantly!
Life isn’t fair… But, saying it’s not fair suggests that you think life is supposed to be fair. Which only makes you look immature and naive. The phrase I told you so is bursting with conceit and superiority. Intelligent people, never utter such words from their lips. Phrases such as you always / you never make people defensive and closed off to your message. Saying this is the way it’s always been done not only makes you sound lazy but archaic.
If you do not have anything good to say about a person, then don’t say anything at all. And avoid gender-biased statements such as you look great for your age, or for a woman, you’ve accomplished so much. Also, phrases like it’s up to you… I don’t care… or whatever you want do not encourage conversation.
The phrase good luck is subtle, often well-intended, and is certainly subjective to one’s own interpretation
But you can do better because this phrase implies that someone needs luck in order to succeed. And when someone asks you to do something or thanks you for doing something, and you respond with no problem, you’re implying that his or her request should have been a problem.
Saying that this will only take a minute undermines your skills and gives the impression that you rush through tasks. Using passive phrases, such as I think or this may be a silly idea, instantly writes off your credibility. Anything that comes after phrases like these, may not be given as much attention as they deserve. Just like the word ‘think’, ‘try’ sounds tentative and suggests that you lack confidence in your ability to execute the task.
Saying it’s not my fault and shifting blame on other people is never a good idea
Also, think before you would say with all due respect. Are the words that are about to come out of your mouth truly influenced by a measure of respect for the recipient? If you can honestly answer “yes” then carry on. If not, it’s best to avoid this phrase. People don’t like to hear I can’t because they think it means I won’t. While the phrase as I said before makes it sound as if you’re insulted by having to repeat yourself.
The bottom line is, intelligent people never say these 16 phrases because they are highly aware. Active listening is a sign of a high emotional intelligence, and social awareness helps you avoid those awkward moments when something comes out wrong and gets misunderstood. With that said, take a few seconds before opening your mouth to be aware of what you’re saying and to whom.