So many of us hold ourselves back because we have questions or concerns about how we might sound to others. In today’s post, Pete offers some thoughts about how we can stop doing that, and giving ourselves full permission to share our beliefs and convictions.
“I don’t want to sound cheesy, but…”
How many times have you heard that?
Or maybe more importantly… how many times have you not said something because you were worried it might sound that way?
Over time, a lot of people learn to filter themselves.
Not because their ideas lack value — but because they’re worried about:
And the result?
Good ideas never get said.
There’s a subtle message out there — especially in entertainment and culture:
Sincerity = cheesy.
So we hedge.
We soften.
We apologize before we even begin.
But here’s the problem:
When you undercut your message, your audience does too.
Instead of pulling back, try this shift:
Stand behind what you’re about to say.
Believe it has value.
Assume it’s worth hearing.
One of the best reframes I’ve heard was this:
“This might sound cheesy… but it’s really good cheese.”
That’s confidence.
It says:
“I believe in this — and I think you will too.”
You don’t have to pretend your thinking is perfect.
There’s a difference between:
“This might be dumb, but…”
and
“I haven’t fully thought this through yet, but here’s where my thinking is…”
One undermines you.
The other invites consideration.
This isn’t about being right every time.
It’s about:
Because if you don’t stand behind your words…
No one else will either.
The next time you feel the urge to soften your message before you say it, pause.
Ask yourself:
“Do I believe this has value?”
If the answer is yes —
Say it like it does.
Receive weekly posts of insight and inspiration.
No Comments yet!