Say When

When someone is serving you food or drink, they may tell you to "say when" to indicate that you have enough.  In that type of situation, saying when is a signal to stop.  However, the word "when" can be a powerful declaration for self motivation.  Instead of talking about "if" certain things happen for or to you, reference what you will do "when" opportunities or obstacles present themselves.  The word "when" indicates a confidence that you will get the chance to meet the challenge.  It is the beginning of an affirmation of what you can do.


When you look in a mirror, reflect on what you are looking forward to and/or what went well that day.  You control the content and flow of your thoughts.  Send them in a direction of anticipated accomplishments.

When you make a request, be clear, concise, and specific.  Don't make others wonder what you are asking for or what you need.  You only get relevant answers and sufficient help when those providing assistance understand what is required of them.

When you listen, pay attention to what is not being said.  Sometimes the absence of a word or statement is significant.  Realizing what was not said can help you determine the relevant follow up questions to ask.

When you are frustrated, recognize it and release it.  There will be times when things don't go your way.  Acknowledge that you are bothered and move on to something else that needs to be done. 

When you are overwhelmed, stop, drop, and roll.  Those are the commands to help someone that is on fire.  Fire can be an appropriate analogy when multiple problems are occurring simultaneously.  Stop to prioritize your responsibilities, drop the things that are not urgent, and roll with what's left on your list.

When you give advice, be willing to invest in it.  Words have power, but actions produce results.  When others see that you use the same principles that you speak to them, it adds validity to your suggestions.

When your size is not available, verify your measurements.  Maybe you have outgrown your current box.  It may be time for you to expand your expectations.  If something seems too large for you, tailor it to fit you.

When you lack energy, focus, or motivation, plug in and recharge.  Connect yourself to people and activities that will remind you of what you want and what you need to do to get it.  Take a balanced approach to reduce the chance of burnout. 

When you think you are right, it doesn't mean someone else is wrong.  Consider that their background, consequences, and ability to see the big picture may differ from yours.  It doesn't mean that they are stubborn or misinformed.  Those attributes may apply to you.

When you achieve one goal, use it as a building block for the next one.  Capitalize on the hard work and sacrifice that were required to get to the finish line.  Don't start over to reach the next target.  Note the relationships, lessons, and creativity that helped you previously.

Leave a comment share which "when" statement stood out to you.