"The good news is ..."

Conversations with people are inevitable. That is unless you live off the grid, in the middle of the woods somewhere. But most of us don't. We have to interact with people all the time.

Having conversations sometimes can be tricky, that's why starting with a positive spin can help move things forward in a better way.

Here is an example...

What if someone is resisting change? No matter what you say the fear is there and they are stuck. But what if you were to say, "The good news is you already know that what you are doing now is not working, so what is the harm in trying this?" Wouldn't that put a positive spin on it? Isn't there a better chance that they'll be a little more open?

Here's another example...

What if someone is unsure about whether or not they have the skills to perform a certain task required to make their business work? You could say, "The good news is that we have comprehensive training you can complete at your own pace to give you all the gifts you need to make a success of this business."

By putting a positive things on the situation, you can create a shift in people's thoughts.

Another phrase you can use is, "That's great!"

Here is a way in which you can use these affirming words:

Let's suppose someone gives you an excuse ... "I couldn't do it because of ..." You can say, "That's great! You've just found another way that doesn't work."

Phrases like, "The good news is..." or, "That's great!" motivate instead of deflate.

See if you can incorporate these next time you have a conversation where someone is feeling down about something they're doing.

For more information, read:

Exactly What to Say, The Magic Words for Influence and Impact, by Phil M. Jones