On Tuesday we talked about substituting “I want…” with “I prefer…” and how that can change the energy around how you feel about what you’d like to have.

And that’s really good for your internal conversations, and in many other applications. In daily practice, though, sometimes it can be a bit awkward for conversations with others. Not everyone will immediately understand your meaning when you put it that way.

For example, if you see a new car that you’d like to have, and you say to your friend, “I prefer that one.” Sounds just a bit strange from the outside, doesn’t it?

So what do we do, go back to “I want that one?”

Well, I’d prefer not to, because it seems to keep me in a place of wanting - and what I’m telling myself is that I don’t have it - I’m lacking something.

So, here’s another substitute that works in conversation, without the negative side:

“I’d love to have that.”

Go ahead, let that sink in for a moment.

Think about something you “want”, and say, “I’d love that.” “I’d love to go to the beach this summer.” “I’d love to be driving that car.”

Now, here’s a bonus feature that comes standard with this substitution: You can also use it when you’re asking someone else for something…

Think about the difference between: “I want you to help me” ~ and ~ “I’d love it if you helped me.”

Hmmm.

Feels better to me, and to the other person. Try it for a day, and see what you think. Could change any number of things, for you and those you talk to.

Just Imagine That!