Bye Bye Wimpy Words: Speak Like the Confident Diva You Are
Have you ever said something like:
“I’m just not sure…”
“I think this might help…”
“Sorry to bother you…”
You’re not alone—and you’re not wrong for it. But as Divas, it’s time we check in with the way we communicate and ask ourselves:
Is this how a confident woman speaks?
What Are Wimpy Words?
Wimpy words are softeners—phrases we use to cushion our statements, seek permission, or avoid seeming too direct. Common culprits include:
- Just
- I think
- I’m sorry, but…
- Maybe
- Does that make sense?
- I feel like…
They sneak into our emails, our exam room conversations, and even our leadership meetings—not because we lack confidence, but because we’ve been conditioned to avoid sounding “too much.”
Why It Matters
These words might feel harmless, but they quietly do more harm than good. Over time, they can:
- Undermine your authority
- Erode patient or team confidence
- Cause you to second-guess your clinical recommendations
- Diminish how you see yourself as a leader and expert
You’re not here to shrink. You’re here to shine.
What to Say Instead
Let’s transform wimpy words into confident communication:
| Wimpy Phrase | Confident Upgrade |
|---|---|
| I’m just checking… | I’m following up on… |
| I think… | I recommend… |
| Sorry to bother you | Do you have a moment? |
| I feel like… | Here’s what I’ve observed… |
| Maybe we could… | Let’s move forward with… |
You don’t need to be forceful—you just need to be clear.
How to Start Reclaiming Your Voice
- Notice: Tune in to the softeners you use the most.
- Replace: Use language rooted in clarity and strength.
- Practice: It might feel awkward at first—practice anyway.
- Repeat: Confidence grows when you use it.
Final Thought
Speaking confidently isn’t about being aggressive. It’s about owning your value. The more we eliminate language that minimizes us, the more we give ourselves permission to lead, to guide, and to thrive.
Words are not just tools. They are power. Let’s use them intentionally. Let’s speak like the brilliant, bold, unstoppable women we are. Together, let’s say: Bye bye, wimpy words. Hello, confidence.
The next time you catch yourself saying “just”, remember:
You’re not just anything.
You are a Force of nature in a white coat—and that deserves to be heard.
(Takes less than 2 minutes)
