3 Reasons Why We Should Be Careful When Using Absolutes
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You’re having a disagreement with a dear friend. During the argument, these words come out of your mouth, “I never…”
At some point, we all have been guilty of this infraction, some more than others.
If you think back, most arguments and disagreements stem from or consist of absolute words.
An absolute defines things, which are pure, perfect, guaranteed, all-embracing, exact, precise, conclusive and unquestionable.
Absolute words have NO exception. They speak to the fact of something being 100% correct or 100% wrong.
By no means, am I promoting banishment of these words because they are needed in our English language. However, I am advocating to be very careful when using these words.
There aren’t many absolutes in our world today, but there are a few.
Today, I want to talk about 3 Reasons Why We Should Be Careful When Using Absolutes, but first let’s look at some absolute words.
Absolute Words
All
Always
Every
Just
Only
Never
None
No
Not
Must
So, why should we be careful when using absolutes?
3 Reasons Why We Should Be Careful When Using Absolutes
1. Compromises Our Integrity
Our integrity will be questioned, if we choose to utilize absolutes too frequently. As I said before, there aren’t many absolutes in life, except when it comes to truth and lies. Check out one my previous blog post -2 Reasons Why The Truth Is Better Than A Lie.
2. Comes Across As Being Condescending
There are a few people who love drama and negativity, but most people find negativity to be distasteful. If you haven’t read any of my blogs, I believe everyone has some form of leadership within them. Although people may follow, not many people are happy with a leader making them feel inferior.
On the other hand, it also applies to relationships. In relationships, using absolutes will make it seem like you are ALWAYS right. I think most of us would agree, this can be a BIG problem. From psychological studies, we do choose significant others based off of who raised us. But, raise your hand or comment below if you would like to date or marry someone who treats you like child. Better yet, how many people would like to be in a relationship with you always being wrong? Relationships should be based on both partners respecting each other 100% and not trying to find 100% fault in the other.
3. Gives Off An “I Don’t Care” Attitude
I am a father of 3 boys and sometimes my boys will give off the “I Don’t Care” attitude when I ask them some questions. I should say here, my boys are a wonderful blessing to me. But like all children, children get that “I Don’t Care” attitude sometimes. However, it’s bad when an adult gives off an “I Don’t Care” attitude.
Why?
Because as adults, we are suppose to care. We have more responsibilities and more to lose with the “I Don’t Care” attitude. Have you ran into this problem at work, church, or with your family? Again, this can be a BIG problem. These are perfect opportunities to teach children, but overall they may get a pass because they are still learning and developing. People, businesses, etc. will be less forgiving with adults possessing this attitude.
Action: The action is as simple as, being careful of using absolutes. Before speaking, think about the words you are using and the relationship at stake.
Question(s): How do you feel about absolutes? (Please leave a comment below.)
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