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Featured Episodes
Below I share with you how saying “YES … AND” can work for you in both life and in business.
IN LIFE:#1: “Denise, the presentation was great, but you really could have spent more time on the budget.”
#2: “Denise, the presentation was great, AND will be even better next time when we make sure to spend more time breaking down the budget.”
I’m guessing you are picking up the vibe.
Statement #1 is our “but” statement. It builds you up and then immediately breaks you down. How often have you heard things like “great job … but” … or “you are the perfect candidate … but” or “I love you … but”? I have and it always makes me feel a little discounted. The “but” is a negative and it closes off the conversation, rather than offering a suggestion for improvement.
Statement #2 is our “and” statement. It supports. It contributes. It is positive. Saying “yes … and” forces you to contribute and to be a positive part of the conversation. The “and” allows you to add a little something that is supportive in nature of the original statement.
It’s important to note that the “and” does not mean we must tell someone what they want to hear and not address any areas of concern. As you can see from statement #2 above, the concern is still addressed, just in a supportive way. Which will make a bigger impact to who you are talking to because now they are engaged.
How did you feel the last time someone told you “Yes …… but”?
Be well. Be inspired!
Judi
