Okay, now that you have a few more holes in your vocabulary because of last weeks post (Speak No Evil), it's time we start to talk about filling the voids. It doesn't take a whole lot of effort... just choose one word to focus on and use it a little more often.

As with many things, the more you focus on something, the more things like it start to show up in your life.

Words, phrases and actions can work both ways. We spoke of the power of their negative attributes, but they can also be just as powerful when used in a more positive sense.  

There is no need to broadcast any changes you plan to make to your vocabulary; in fact, it is a much more meaningful social experiment to simply focus on incorporating a couple of core words into your speech and watch how those around you respond.

Here we go:

• Thank you - There is not one word that is better than all the rest, but saying thanks ranks close to the top. Try using it with the crew, even for just the simplest of things, such as a well raked bunker and they will respond in kind. Cultivating a spirit of gratitude in life helps everyone realize how many things there are to be thankful for every day.
• Humility - Now this is more a state of mind than a word, but it is no less important. I never met anyone that was doing that much better than the rest of us because they thought they were better than everyone else.  If you don't practice humility in our line of work, mother nature will let you know sooner or later.
• Smile - Again, I know that this is an action not a word, but you will be amazed how those around you respond to a simple smile. Even strangers react differently when you look up and smile instead of walking by with your head down.
• How can I help? helping others and giving of yourself is one of the most important things you can do with your life. Whether its lending a hand to a fellow superintendent in a jam or volunteering at your local soup kitchen, helping others helps you more than you know.
• I love you - Maybe it would be best not to say this to everyone on the crew, but you could definitely stand to say it more often to those who matter most in your personal life. Our families deal with a lot because of our jobs, so take the time to let them know how much they mean to you. It creates a better environment in your home if everyone is reminded how much they are loved.
• Nothing - This may sound counter-intuitive, but often times the best thing to say is nothing at all. If you are silent then a lot of good things must be happening. You are not saying anything negative, you are not engaged in mindless gossip, and -- best of all -- you are listening.  The simple act of listening is hands down one of the most important skills we can practice when managing people.