The Power of Language: Eliminate “But” and Transform Your Mindset
Language shapes our thoughts, our actions, and ultimately, our success. One word, in particular, holds more power over our progress than most people realize: “but.” If you want to achieve success, go viral, or dominate your industry, this word has to go.
Why “But” is Holding You Back
Consider this: You tell yourself, “I am going to build a thriving business.”
Now, what happens when you add “but” to that statement?
- I am going to build a thriving business, but I don’t have enough money.
- I want to create viral content, but I don’t have the right equipment.
- I want to rank #1 on Google, but I don’t know SEO.
The moment you introduce “but,” you shift your mindset from possibility to limitation. Instead of taking action, you create an excuse. Instead of moving forward, you halt progress.
The Science Behind Limiting Language
Psychologists have found that the words we use influence our beliefs. When we say “but,” we create an internal conflict that leads to doubt and hesitation. Over time, these doubts become ingrained beliefs, making it harder to take action.
Instead, imagine stating your goals without adding an excuse:
- I am going to build a thriving business.
- I want to create viral content.
- I will rank #1 on Google.
The difference is night and day. When you eliminate “but,” you remove the mental roadblocks and replace hesitation with confidence.
The Power of an Upbeat Ending
Filmmakers, musicians, and public speakers all understand the importance of ending on an upbeat note. Ending on a high keeps your audience engaged and leaves a lasting impact.
The same applies to your own mindset. When you state a goal, end on a strong, positive note:
- This video will go viral.
- I will dominate my industry.
- My business will thrive.
No excuses. No doubts. Just conviction.
How “But” Affects Sales, Relationships, and Success
This mindset shift isn’t just for entrepreneurs or content creators—it applies to every aspect of life.
1. Sales and Business Growth
Sales professionals who eliminate “but” close more deals. Instead of saying, “I’d love to help you, but our pricing may be too high,” say, “I’d love to help you, and we’ll find a solution that fits your budget.”
2. Relationships and Communication
The word “but” can damage personal and professional relationships. Compare these two statements:
- “I love you, but you need to change.”
- “I love you, and I believe in our growth together.”
The second statement fosters connection instead of conflict.
3. Personal Growth and Confidence
Your self-talk determines your actions. Replace limiting statements like:
- “I want to get in shape, but I don’t have time.”
- “I want to get in shape, and I will make time.”
The shift is subtle yet powerful.
Another Phrase to Eliminate: “But the Problem Is…”
Another phrase that cripples progress is “but the problem is.”
A yoga instructor I worked with used to say, “That would be great, but the problem is…” every time we discussed new ideas.
- “That would be great, but the problem is I don’t have enough clients.”
- “That would be great, but the problem is I’m not ready.”
Each time she used this phrase, she reinforced the idea that problems were bigger than solutions.
Instead, flip the script:
- “That would be great, and here’s how I’ll make it happen.”
- “That would be great, and I’ll start now.”
Success doesn’t come from problem-focused thinking—it comes from action-driven solutions.
How to Take Action Now
- Catch Yourself Using “But”
Pay attention to when you use limiting language. Each time you say “but,” reframe your statement into a positive action. - End on an Upbeat Note
Whether you’re making a video, writing an email, or speaking to a client, end with confidence. - Replace “But” with “And”
Instead of saying, “I want to grow my business, but I don’t know where to start,” say, “I want to grow my business, and I’ll take the first step today.” - Eliminate “But the Problem Is”
Focus on solutions, not roadblocks. Instead of pointing out problems, highlight opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Stop. Done. Go.
Words matter. If you want to succeed—whether in business, content creation, or personal growth—eliminate the words that hold you back.
Stop saying “but.”
Done with excuses.
Go take action now.
At Stern Storming, we help businesses go viral by eliminating limiting beliefs and implementing powerful marketing strategies. If you’re ready to dominate local SEO and create viral content that ranks, let’s make it happen—no “buts” about it.