How Changing Two Words Changed My Perspective and My Life

A few years ago, I realized I was saying something far too often: “They should.”

“They should implement this program for my kids.”

“They should start this class at the library.”

“They should market themselves in this fun/unique/attention-getting way.”

“They should do more to get out the vote.”

At some point — probably in my mid 30’s — it hit me like a lightning bolt: What in tarnation’s name was I waiting for? If I wanted something badly enough, I should just DO IT.

So I worked on changing my language — “They should” — and focused on adopting something stronger, more active and more accountable — “I will.”

Changing those two passive words to something much stronger and more active made me think more about what I actually wanted — and what I asked for. It’s so easy to throw “they should” into the wind without much thought or care, but it’s a lot harder to say that I’ll commit to actually doing something.

Have I changed the world? Not yet, but I’ve made confident steps to become a more active participant in things that matter to me — like canvassing for causes I’m passionate about and starting meet-ups for activities I want to enjoy more frequently with like-minded people. I’ve also taken greater control in my professional life. When I say “I will” do something, I try my best to make it happen — so I’ve been writing about topics I care about and want to see changed, adopting new and creative marketing techniques to connect with clients, and designing programs to help new real estate agents get on their feet professionally.

Try it for a week or two, and see how your mindset changes and what you can achieve. Become a more active person in your own life and community through your language.

“I will.”