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Some years back, before I sold my business and retired, I tried something and I've stuck with it ever since. I pretty much never say 'should', in the sense tha
by drdavid 5y ago
Some years back, before I sold my business and retired, I tried something and I've stuck with it ever since.
I pretty much never say 'should', in the sense that someone 'should do' something. Instead, I use the word 'could.'
"Well, you could try doing it this way."
"As you're not having any success with this method, you could use this method."
The difference in responses was great enough for me to develop the habit and stick with it. I'd call it a success.
There are other things I don't say. I don't say "I understand." Instead, I say something similar to, "I can relate." Again, the differences in responses that I get from people have made it worth developing the habit.
- rrauenza 5y agoAre you suggesting we could all try doing this too?
- drdavid 5y agoIf you want people to be more receptive, you could try it.
- rrauenza 5y agoYes, I could. (Not sure if you missed the original joke...) But I really appreciate your insight here. I've already suggested it to someone else and will try to use this myself.
- drdavid 5y agoIt works all over the place... Your buddy is over at your house and they're bitching about their significant other. "Well, you could try listening to your SO's complaints, weighing them for validity, and consider acting on them." Your drunk buddy will almost certainly take that better than if you told them they should shut the hell up and listen to the valid criticism levied against them by their spouse.