Leadership is not just about giving orders, it’s about guiding people toward a vision using consistent communication, action, and encouragement. Being an effective leader requires connection with the people they lead. To create a shift in communication, leaders need to be mindful of the phrases they use. Here are 15 phrases that an effective leader would never say.

1. “I can’t”

Saying “I can’t” limits action to only doing the things that are believed to be possible. Good leaders have faith in their abilities and are not afraid to try new things. Instead of “I can’t”, a leader would say “I will” followed by “How?” These phrases inspire creativity and innovation, two qualities that all leaders possess.

2. “I don’t care”

Saying “I don’t care” communicates a lack of regard and drive. Effective leaders are driven and passionate about executing their vision. They show an interest in their team and care for each member of their organization. They understand that respecting every unit, from the smallest member to the largest change, is important.

3. “I’m in charge”

The need to tell people that one is in charge indicates a lack of control. Managers often use this phrase to bark out orders from a safe distance to their submissive team members. Leaders, on the other hand, empower their team by allowing them to contribute to their vision. Leaders establish respect and build followers through consistent action, not through fearful words.

4. “You don’t understand”

Telling someone that they don’t understand shuts them down before even making an effort to help them understand. Good leaders understand that if there is misunderstanding or their vision is unclear, it is their responsibility to help their team understand. Effective leaders ask “Check this out!” or “How can I help you?” to facilitate a dialogue and ensure clarity.

5. “Can I?”

The best leaders don’t wait for permission before making change. They create change through action and ask for forgiveness later. By waiting for permission, followers limit their ability to affect change. Leaders pursue the most efficient and effective way possible, and they take action to implement change.

6. “It’s impossible”

Saying this phrase shuts down any possibility of an idea or action happening. Effective leaders are confident and have faith in the people they lead, and they understand the importance of motivation and inspiration. Leaders ask questions such as “How can we…?” to encourage innovation and inspire their team.

7. “Let’s wait” or “It’s not time”

Good leaders never wait for the perfect moment to execute a project or idea. They know that timing will never be perfect. They execute ideas and changes organically, adapting to the obstacles as they unfold. The best leaders are constantly searching for ways to improve upon systems using innovation and strategy.

8. “People won’t like me”

Great leaders strive for change. They know that not everyone will like them, and they cannot please everyone. Being confident in their vision and beliefs allows them to maintain this mindset. Effective leaders understand that society is rooted in habitual routines, and most people do not like change. A leader creates waves by changing the status quo.

9. “It’s always been done this way”

Leaders know that innovation is necessary for people to believe in their vision and follow them. Effective leaders ask questions such as “What if?” to challenge and improve systems. They realize that just because a system worked in the past doesn’t mean it will work today.

10. “I did it”

Effective leaders give credit where credit is due. When referring to accomplishments of their organization or team, they use “We did it!” or “Y’all did it!” These phrases empower their team members and encourage them to continually strive for greater success.

11. “I know enough”

Leaders understand that they have not learned everything. They are always asking “Why?” or “How?” to improve their knowledge and understanding. Asking the right questions is critical for leaders to become successful.

12. “It’s too difficult”

Leaders see challenges as opportunities. They pave the way through obstacles with phrases such as “Let’s do it” and “We can.” Overcoming obstacles requires creativity and faith. Effective leaders have both of these qualities and have developed them by plowing through obstacles and boundaries that seemed too difficult.

13. “It’s not personal, it’s business”

Leaders understand the importance of the relationships they have with their members. If an individual cannot engage with their team on a relational level, their team will not care about executing their vision to their top potential. Effective leaders engage their team members in a tangible and relational way.

14. “I don’t have time”

Leaders prioritize and manage their schedule effectively to invest in the things that matter. Engaging with team members is what makes an effective leader. Saying “Let’s find a time” or “I can make time for you” are two of the most supportive phrases that engage and connect leaders to their team and establish their follower’s worth.

15. “It’s perfect” or “They’ll be perfect”

Perfection is an illusion. Waiting for the perfect prototype, perfect time, or perfect people will not bring about change. Effective leaders realize this and are aware of their imperfections. They are not quick to judge or expect perfection from others. Leaders strive for the best and don’t settle for less.

In conclusion, being a leader requires effective communication that motivates and inspires others. An effective leader needs to connect with the people they lead and create a shift in communication to attract a tribe that will follow them with dedicated loyalty. Leaders influence change through their actions, and they inspire and motivate their team members with uplifting phrases that communicate support, action, and encouragement. Effective leaders understand that they are not perfect but strive for the best. They are willing to say “we” and “us” instead of “I.” Being a leader is not easy, but with consistent action, effective communication, and encouragement, anyone can become an effective leader.