Our word choice reflects the way we think, so as leaders we get to be mindful of the words we use.
With that said, let’s look at the words ‘good’ and ‘bad.’
Can we agree they are wildly subjective?
I mean, what makes something good, and what makes something bad?
It’s a much bigger conversation than these overly simplistic adjectives.
This is where the conversation of values-based leadership comes in.
(I recommend my friend and mentor, Dr. Betty Uribe’s book called #Values: The Secret to Top Level Performance in Business and Life)
Our values (personal, family, company, faith/religious, cultural, country etc.) will determine what we deem “good or bad.”
But instead of “good or bad,” I invite you to use the words “aligned or misaligned.”
For example, “Eating pork is misaligned with my lifestyle” vs. “Eating pork is bad.”
This way you aren’t judging or making bad or wrong the person who chooses to eat pork.
Another example, “That politician is aligned with my values” vs. “That other politician is bad (or some derogatory term.)”
No one wants to be judged. So being mindful with your words can take the ‘charge’ out of a confrontational or difficult conversation.