You’ve been there.
That moment in a meeting when someone is explaining themselves . . . and explaining . . . and explaining some more. With each new word, their message gets weaker, their impact smaller, their power . . . gone.
I’ve coached CEOs who have this habit. Every decision needs a paragraph. Every email, a novel. Every response, a TED talk.
“Just being thorough,” they’d say.
But were they?
What if power isn’t in what you add . . . but in what you take away?
There’s a new movie out called “IF.”
It stands for “Imaginary Friend.”
But long before Hollywood got their hands on those two letters, they were the most powerful words ever spoken…
Philip II of Macedon (Alexander the Great’s father) sent a threatening message to Sparta:
“If I enter Laconia, I will raze Sparta to the ground.”
The Spartan leader’s response?
A single word:
“If.”
That’s it. One word.
Two letters that carried more power than Philip’s entire threat.
[In fact, this principle of using fewer words became so famous that we still use it today. The term “laconic” comes from Laconia, where Sparta was located, and means to ‘be brief and powerful.’]
That’s right. These ancient warriors applied their power and tenacity to their use of swords and words. Quick cutting strokes of tongue and blade.
But here’s what fascinates me most…
Most people think adding words adds power. More explanation equals more impact. More detail delivers more clarity.
What if the opposite is true?
What if power comes from subtraction, not addition?
Think about it:
- “I’ll be back.” – Three words that launched a franchise.
- “Just Do It.” – Three words that built a brand.
- “This isn’t working.” – Three words that spark change.
This isn’t just about communication. It’s about power. Your power.
Every time you feel the urge to over-explain, over-justify, or over-do it, remember IF. Not as your Imaginary Friend, but as your Instant Focus reminder that power often lives in what you don’t say.
In a world of endless chatter, constant noise, and infinite content . . . maybe the most powerful thing you can do is subtract.
So next time you’re crafting an email, giving feedback, or making a decision, ask yourself:
“What if I shared one idea, instead of three?”
“What if I made this shorter instead of longer?”
“What if I mastered one skill for 90 days, instead of 5?”
From experience…I know you’ll find more freedom in less than more.
Be Bold. Take Action. Leave a Mark
Todd Herman
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