I Think, I Feel, I Hope

It may sound trite, but our words really do matter. Whether they’re spoken or written, they have the power to influence. 

The other day, I was editing a pitch that a client wrote. While I was going through it the first time, I noticed that they used phrases like: 

"I think this or that..."

"I feel like this would be a good opportunity…."

"I hope to gain a lot of experience…"

And then it hit me.

This is a pitch, and it should be written as such! When you’re trying to sell your idea, you have to write it as if it will work. There’s no time for nebulous or lukewarm phrases. Write with conviction and intention. Tell them why you can’t afford to lose. You’re Beyonce, not a one-hit wonder. Remix it and give the people what they want to hear (or read): 

"I am certain that this or that will have an impact because…"

"This will be a good opportunity because it will allow me to..."

"I know that I will gain a lot of experience from…"

The importance of words also relates to life in general. Speak affirmatively about your goals. When you say you “think” or “hope” that your dreams will come true, you’re inserting a safety net that doesn’t need to be there. You’re probably saying those words just in case things don’t come to pass. It gives you an out. Using certain words when speaking about goals or ideas will become obstacles to your progress. 

With that being said, there’s nothing wrong with expressing that you hope for something or feel a certain way in some cases. You just need to know when to use those phrases and with whom. Learning this comes with wisdom and life experience. When it comes to your goals, however, always advocate for yourself and your ideas like you are going to Run the World.