When I taught writing, I made a big deal about verbs. A well chosen verb can eliminate the need for all sorts of adverbs. Amble trumps walk slowly without purpose every time. Verbs are like the spice of a sentence. Whether you find yourself crafting a story or making a pot of chili, subtle elements can make the difference. Perhaps you take verbs and spices for granted. If so, try substituting three tablespoons of cayenne pepper for the same amount of chili powder. Then watch as your eyes “water,” your chest “heaves,” and your throat “gags.”
Verbs help us set our intention and record our accomplishments. For example, I start most mornings with a walk in the woods, but somehow I feel so much better when I call it a hike.
Yes, verbs are great attitude adjusters. Take should, want, or like. As part of the reflective work my mother did while she was active in Al-Anon, she considered how her language influenced her perspective. She used to say, “I feel very differently about a task when I swap should for want.”
Try it. “I should make the bed.” The implication is that there is some moral value placed on making a bed or some judgment on someone who does not make her bed. On the other hand, “I want to make my bed,” puts the speaker in the driver seat, implying that having a made bed offers a benefit.
It’s a pretty simple switch that can significantly change your outlook. Let’s say you’re perusing the menu at a favorite restaurant. How does it feel to say, “I want to have a salad” (or any menu item that looks appealing), instead of “I should have a salad”?
How about matters of civic engagement. “I should vote in the election for school board members” versus “I want to vote in local elections.” The first suggests a sense of guilt about not voting; the other offers a chance to get informed because you want to participate.
You can even up the ante and bring “like” into your repertoire. Back to the bed example, isn’t it better to like to make your bed than simply to want to make it? This trick also works well for exercise. I should get out for a walk, I want to get out for a walk, or best of all, I like to get out for a walk. What a difference!
Do me a favor, sometime over the next few days, try your own verbal paradigm shift. Then, if you feel inspired, jot your observations in the comments section.
I “like” to leave comments when you ask for them😏
Verbs matter. I love this message, well done