Earlier this month, I decided to stop using the word “just” in my conversations. It might seem like a tiny shift, but the impact has been anything but small.

“Just” sneaks into our sentences like a thief, stealing power from our words. “I just wanted to ask…” or “I just think…” makes what follows feel smaller, less important. For a leader, clarity and confidence are everything, and softening your message doesn’t help anyone.

The moment I realized this was during a crucial meeting. I found myself saying, “I just think we should…” and it hit me—I was undermining my own ideas. Not by what I was saying, but by how I was saying it. I don’t lead by barking orders; I lead by influence, by bringing people together. But even in a collaborative environment, how you say something shapes how it’s received.

Three weeks later, the difference is clear. Without “just,” my words feel stronger, more direct. My requests are clear, my conversations are focused. It’s a small change, but it’s made me a better communicator.

But this isn’t about one word. It’s about paying attention to the little things that can make a big difference. In leadership, our words carry weight, and how we use them matters.

Communication isn’t about using complex or impressive words—it’s about being clear and intentional.

Want to sound smart and cool as a leader? Try “syzygy.”

The key thing, however, is  that adding “syzygy” to your vocabulary or removing “just” isn’t what really matters.

What matters is that your message gets through, that it’s clear and understood.

Leadership isn’t about fancy words; it’s about making sure your communication hits the mark and inspires action. That’s what drives change.