Words are weapons. Words are wands. They can slice through apathy or spark a wildfire of belief. But too often, even the most well-meaning speakers unknowingly use phrases that dim the light instead of ignite the flame.
If you’re in the business of moving people—and trust me, if you speak, lead, or live with purpose, you are—then you’ve got to become a guardian of your language. Because the wrong phrase? It doesn’t just miss the mark. It mutes the magic.
Here are 10 inspiration-killers to retire—and the soul-charged switches to use instead:
- “This might sound stupid, but…”
➤ 🔁 “This might sound bold, but…”
Never apologize for your insight. Lead with courage, not caution. - “I’m not an expert, but…”
➤ 🔁 “From my experience…”
Your story has value. Your lived truth is a form of expertise. Own it. - “Just bear with me…”
➤ 🔁 “Journey with me…”
You’re not asking for pity. You’re inviting partnership. Reframe the vibe. - “I think I…”
➤ 🔁 “I believe…” or “I know…”
Uncertainty weakens your power. Speak like your truth is solid ground. - “Sorry for taking up your time…”
➤ 🔁 “Thank you for sharing this moment with me.”
Time is a gift. Treat it—and yourself—like you belong here. - “Hopefully, this makes sense…”
➤ 🔁 “Let me show you why this matters…”
You’re not begging for clarity. You’re building it. - “I’ll keep this short…”
➤ 🔁 “Let me give you something meaningful…”
Don’t rush the depth. Promise value, not brevity. - “This is probably wrong, but…”
➤ 🔁 “Here’s a different lens…”
Innovation lives in reframing. Stand by your unique view. - “I’ll try to…”
➤ 🔁 “I’m going to…”
Try whispers. Intent declares. - “That’s all I have.”
➤ 🔁 “Thank you for receiving this.”
You didn’t run out. You offered. And offering is always enough.
See, being a powerful speaker isn’t just about what you say—it’s about what your words signal. Do they shrink or shine? Do they deflate or elevate? Every time you speak, you’re casting a spell. So cast the kind that leaves people lifted.
Because the best public speakers, the top inspirational voices, aren’t just skilled. They’re intentional. And it starts with replacing language that hides… with language that heals.
