Page 39 - Perfect Phrases for Motivating and Rewarding

to fight or flee often leads to explosion (conflict) or implosion
(self-doubt, depression, and anxiety).
■ Do you have a sense of humor? Do you encourage openness
to humor (that doesn’t target any person or group and is
appropriate and tasteful)? Laughter is wonderful for relieving
stress.
■ Having fun at work is productive, not counterproductive.
People who can laugh during the workday enjoy their work
environments more and are more likely to remain at their jobs
and do well.

Motivational Phrases
■ “The scope of this proposal grows with every client
conversation. Let’s stop and assess what we can do realistically
within our deadline.”
■ “I know everyone already has a packed agenda, but the XO
contract is a big opportunity for us, and David needs some
assistance in preparing for tomorrow’s meeting. Let’s figure out
how we can pool our resources to pitch in.”
■ “Machinery does break down—usually at the worst time. Take
a deep breath and explore your options for completing this
project.”
■ “That customer was totally out of line. I appreciate your
diplomacy in the way you handled the situation. Why don’t
you take a five-minute break?”
■ “You cannot control everything that happens. You can control
how things affect you. Take three slow, deep breaths. It really
does help.”
■ “Losing that (sale, client, computer file . . .) must be
upsetting. We’ve all been there. What steps are you thinking
about for recovery or for moving forward?”
■ “Mistakes are part of the learning process. Let’s look at the
lessons this situation presents.”

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