Stop saying this ONE word to improve your presence
Stop saying this ONE word to improve your presence
I was in a big meeting many years ago - senior leaders, important stakeholders, the kind where everyone watches every word.
I had something important to say, but I opened with:
I just wanted to ask a quick question.
No one looked up.
The conversation moved on.
I shrank a little in my seat.
That night, I replayed the moment in my head. It wasn’t what I said - it was how I said it. That one word, “just” made me sound like I didn’t believe my own voice mattered.
Now over to you, have you ever said:
🚫 “Hi, it’s just [your name]”?
🚫 “I just wanted to add…”
🚫 “I just have a quick question…”
That one small word, “just”, might be holding you back more than you realise.
These are my 3️⃣ tidbits on why you should scrap “just”:
1️⃣ Don’t diminish yourself
Saying “just” makes you sound uncertain.
You matter, so don’t diminish yourself.
2️⃣ Words reflect confidence
The language you use unconsciously reflects how you see yourself.
Saying “just” can undermine your confidence. Instead, speak assertively with a clear, unqualified introduction ensures you aren’t on the backfoot.
3️⃣ Start with strength 💪
First impressions are powerful.
Replace it with a straightforward, confident tone of authority and assurance right from the start.
So ditch “just” and replace it with:
✅ “This is [your name].”
✅ “I want to add…”
✅ “I have a question…”
Small change.
Big shift.
Since that meeting, I’ve ditched “just”.
And people started leaning in when I speak, not because I talk louder…
…but because I believe I belong.
So here’s a challenge: count how many times you say “just” this week and make it a point to ditch it.
Thought Provoking Quotes on this week’s topic
Brené Brown
Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we’ll ever do.
Dr Seuss
Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.