profile

Jefferson Fisher

stop using these 3 phrases

Published 11 months ago • 1 min read
​

Hey Reader,

Ever find yourself saying something that feels a little…unsure?

Like you're tiptoeing around your words?

I get it. But the way you phrase things can either build your confidence—or chip away at it.

Here are 3 common phrases that might be holding you back (and what to say instead):

#1: “I hate to bother you, but—”

You’ve just labeled yourself a bother. Now, before even saying a word the other person is thinking, This is going to bother me.

Instead, try: “When you get a moment, I’d like to grab your attention.”
​
It’s clear, confident, and shows respect for their time.

#2: “Does that make sense?”
​
​Don’t doubt your own ability to send a message, or doubt the other person’s ability to receive it.

Instead, say: “Do you have any questions?” or “Do you have any thoughts?”
​
It invites conversation without undermining your message.

#3: “I don’t want to.”
​
​This sounds like you’re on the defensive. Shift it to a preference.
​
For example: “I’d prefer that you didn’t.”

It signals that you have a standard by which you hold yourself and what they’re asking you to do deviates from that.

When you cut out passive phrases, you naturally sound more assertive and confident—and people take notice.

J

P.S. Which phrase do you catch yourself using the most? Hit reply and let me know. I’d love to hear.

*Sponsorship Transparency: I only recommend products we use and trust. If I wouldn’t put it in my own home, I won’t put it in yours. Simple as that.

Get daily practice: Join The School of Communication here.

Read all of my past emails here.

Inbox overloaded? Set your email frequency here.​

No longer want to hear from me? Unsubscribe here.​

156 S. Main Street Ste 300 #769, Lumberton, TX 77657

​

Jefferson Fisher

Trial Attorney & Communication Expert

Simple, practical communication advice for your next conversation.

Read more from Jefferson Fisher

Hey Reader, Someone called me out yesterday: "Why do I need a workbook? Just tell me what to say." Honestly, it's a fair question. Here's why I wrote The Next Conversation Workbook: Knowing communication tips is one thing. But using the right words when you're in the conversation? That's different. I can tell you the three Cs—Control, Confidence, Connect—over and over. And you can know them in your mind. But when you're face-to-face with someone and the conversation is going sideways… That's...

1 day ago • 1 min read

Hey Reader, You ever walk into a conversation and feel yourself putting on a polished version of you? You’re agreeable. You’re measured. You’re choosing what “sounds nice” instead of what’s actually true. And the whole time you’re thinking... I just want this to feel real. That’s exactly why I created these two resources for you: #1. The Next Conversation Workbook You’ve asked for it and it’s finally here. My new workbook is officially available for preorder. This is the resource I wish I'd...

2 days ago • 2 min read

Hey Reader, You know how sometimes you hear advice and think... “How do I hang on to this for when I really need it?” That's exactly why I created The Next Conversation Workbook. It’s the official companion to my book. I made this for real life—mark it up, dog-ear the pages, take notes. This thing is meant to work hard for you. And, tomorrow, it officially opens for preorder. But you're hearing about it a day early because you're part of my community. Preorder Your Copy Here's what you get...

3 days ago • 1 min read