Tell anybody your idea, and chances are the first thing that comes out of their mouth sounds like, “The problem with that is…” Go ahead try it. It will make you laugh when you see I am right. In fact, you are probably guilty of this knee-jerk response yourself. (Shame on you.)
When it comes to creativity, I want you to pour gas on other people’s ideas and not toss a wet blanket on them. Fuel their enthusiasm. Don’t hinder the creative process.
Here are 23 buzzkill phrases (examples) of what I do not want to hear from you:
- I’m not a creative person
- Follow the rules
- Don’t ask questions
- Don’t be different
- Stay within the lines
- There is only one way
- Don’t be foolish
- Be practical
- Be serious
- Think of your image
- That’s not logical
- It’s not practical
- It’s never been done
- It can’t be done
- It didn’t work for them
- It’s too much work
- We can’t afford to make a mistake
- It will be too hard to administer
- We don’t have the time
- We don’t have the money
- Yes… but
- Play is frivolous
- Failure is final
Here is what I do want to hear: TELL ME MORE.
Credit where credit is due. This list came from a book by John C. Maxwell titled HOW SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE THINK.
Mike Marchev is always looking for a few more proactive travel professionals to join his Sales and Marketing Club. Send for details.
mike@mikemarchev.com
