One day, I received a newsletter from Michael Hyatt (@MichaelHyatt), where he “lures” readers with the following title and text….
THE 2 MOST POWERFUL WORDS FOR REACHING YOUR GOALS
One Simple, Proven Trick that Will Set You up to Win Every Time
Well, of course, I had to read the article, right?
So…what are the 2 most powerful words? Can you guess?
Here are a few of my guesses (and I was assuming 2 words put together):
- Thank you
- Be present
- Try it
- Love you
Well, I was wrong! Turns out, the two words are “if” and “then”…
Evidently, “if” you phrase things in the right way, “then” it leads to desired results.
And, of course, I love the simplicity of the idea; so I had to try and apply the concept to the complex challenges we face in serving children and families.
Here are a few examples in my attempt to write “If/then” statements…
- If we ONLY implemented evidence-based practices, then…
- If we operated from a place of trusting teachers, then…
- If we allowed more time during school lunches, then…
- If we stopped administering standardized tests, then…
- If we valued curiosity, then…
- If we saw readiness as a relationship, then…
- If we educated the child as an integrated whole, then…
- If we expected and valued differences, then…
- If we formed stronger relationships with families, then…
- If we worked and made decisions from a place of love and not fear, then…
WOW! Maybe they are the 2 most powerful words, as I’m starting to see how they can pave the way to positive thinking and visualizing what it is you want.
But is thinking and visualizing enough? Some researchers say NO, we need more than a dream…we need to take action.
So here’s a challenge…give the power of an “if/then” statement a try in identifying action steps.
Download this handout to help guide efforts to create powerful “If/Then” statements.
Lastly, take action on your ridiculously easy first step, then come back to the blog and share “if” by using these two words, you were “then” more powerful in achieving desired results!