Change 'But' to 'And'

The word 'but' cancels out everything you've said before; use it judiciously. It's a perfectly good word.
For example, "He may be thought of as a very smart man, but he's just said some unreasonable."

At meetings, when you offer an idea or opinion and someone immediately says, "Yes, BUT here is what I think." 
Don't you get a bellyache?  The word "but" negates what you just said, and often makes you feel unappreciated
or uninformed.

Encourage associates to try this:  Someone expresses an idea.  Instead of "but," say, "Yes, AND in addition,
you might want to consider this."  Very similar; however, it doesn't discount what the person says and makes
it easier for everyone to hear your suggestions. Try it.

Rande Davis Gedaliah and Robert Gedaliah are authors, speakers, coachers and workshop leaders. Since 1983,
their company, “Speaking for Results”®, has been helping people communicate more clearly and sharpen their
influencing skills.