A common phrase I hear myself and friends say is “I think”.
“I think we’re all set here.”
“I don’t think I can make it tonight.”
In both examples, the idea is firm, but the think adds unnecessary uncertainty. When I say these statements, my mind is made and I don’t need to think it over at all. In the second example, it’s softening a negative response, but no event will change the choice.
One of my core principles is to be a direct and clear communicator. This is a prime example of where I can use that principle to guide improvement. I do not expect considerable gains from this small change, but I would consider this a great chance to improve myself by 1%.
Now that I have called out this behavior, it will be much easier to notice it happening. I am going to try and cut it from my diction.