One phrase stands out as the signal to suggest change is not forthcoming and be prepared to do a small dance with excuses and disappointment.
“I agree, but…” is the phrase that kills change. It’s the phrase that people use when they want to say yes, but they don’t mean it. It’s the phrase that people use to avoid committing.
And it’s prevalent when it comes to change that we need to make ourselves. When someone else needs to change, we’re usually more supportive. But when it comes to our change, we’re more likely to come up with reasons why it’s impossible.
So, next time you hear someone say, “I agree, but…”, ask them to finish the sentence. Ask them to explain why they agree with the concept but are unwilling to make the change. You might be surprised at what you hear.
The phrase “I agree, but…” can signify resistance to change. It can also signify a deeper issue, including a lack of trust or a fear of failure. If you’re hearing this phrase often, it might be time to dig deeper and figure out what’s happening. And there will be times when it is merely a signal that change is not welcome.
