The document discusses the difference between using positive and negative language when giving instructions. It provides the example of a mother telling her daughter "don't fall down" versus "hold on tightly." While the instructions mean similar things, using negative language like "don't" can cause the listener to imagine the unwanted action and have a defensive response. The document recommends using positive language that focuses on the desired action instead of what is not wanted when giving instructions or communicating with others.

2. Don’t fall
down !!!
A little girl is hanging on a tree and the concerning mother reacts immediately

3. Hold on
tightly !!!
What do you think is the
difference in both scenes ??
Similar sort of scene but this time, the mother reacts with different words …

4. Scene # 1 Scene # 2
Similar instructions resulted in different results
O
o
o
p
s

5. Human Brain thinks in pictorial form and it is
extremely difficult for it to process a negative
image
To process the instruction of “Don’t fall
down”, the brain has to first imagine the
falling down and then try not to do it.
What happens when you instruct the children “not “ to do anything ??

6. # 1 – Non Communication
“That’s not how we do it” – It teaches nothing
# 2 – Destructive & causes defensive-ness
“That’s not right” or “It won’t work” – The recipient stops listening or
reading
# 3 – Difficult to achieve closure
“No comments” – in-conclusive and open ended
Negative language is the language of losers. Positive language is the language
of leadership
Negative language is not negative intent – but it is the choice of negative words
even in a positive statement. The likely impacts are:

7. But: Negates any words that are stated before it.
Try: Presupposes failure.
If: Presupposes that you may not.
Might: It does nothing definite. It leaves options for your
listener.
Should Have: Past tense that draws attention to things that
didn't actually happen (and implies guilt.)
Can't/Don't: force the listener to focus on exactly the
opposite of what you want.

8. Don’t hesitate to call
Not a problem
Not a bad idea
There’s no reason why we can’t
There’s nothing you can’t achieve
Can’t do it without your help
I’ll try
Please call me whenever ..
You are welcome
It’s a great idea
There is every reason for us
You can achieve more
Your help would enable us to ..
I’ll give it my best shot
Negative Language Positive Language

9. Identify the opportunities
•Go through the latest mails/communications and identify any
negative language/phrases used
•Replace them with positive phrases to see how it is a lot more
effective
Practice
•Practice at work with colleagues or kids at home
Implement
•Implement in mails / calls.
•Observe other team members and point out any misses
Thank - You

10. Identify the opportunities
•Go through the latest mails/communications and identify any
negative language/phrases used
•Replace them with positive phrases to see how it is a lot more
effective
Practice
•Practice at work with colleagues or kids at home
Implement
•Implement in mails / calls.
•Observe other team members and point out any misses
Thank - You