"There is Power in the Clarity of your Articulation" TM

By Bob Nicoll

Thoughts are things

This is a powerful, compelling statement....in any language.

I would like to share a simple story that demonstrates the above messages.


The story behind: Remember the Ice

In a convenience store on Northern Ave in Phoenix, AZ, the manager had placed a couple of signs above his cash registers. His intention was to encourage his patrons to buy more ice during the hot desert summer. I lived across the street from this store and came to know him. Rick was working one day as I made a purchase. This time I paused and asked him how his ice sales were going. Perhaps you might think this a strange question. Alas, I am intrigued by word choices and their messages, as well as the outcomes of behavior.

You see, the signs above the cash registers read:

DON'T FORGET THE ICE

I asked Rick how sales were going. His reply was less than favorable. I paused and asked if I could make a suggestion. I mean, after all, this is Phoenix--in the desert--in the middle of the summer. (115+ degrees in the shade.)

"Rick, do you have a couple of pieces of paper and a magic marker?" I inquired. He gave me the items and I quickly made two new signs for him.

The new signs were: REMEMBER THE ICE

I left with a knowing smile and purposely stayed away for about three weeks. When I returned, Rick practically tackled me in the parking lot. "What in the world did you do?" he asked excitedly; "I'm having trouble keeping ice in stock! Sales are up!"

I smiled and explained what I had done.

I started by asking him a simple question. "If I say to you: Don't think of the color blue. What color are you thinking of?"

"Why blue of course" he replied.

"Of course."

Now if I say "don't forget the ice," what will you likely forget?



"Hmmm.......the ice."


"Right"