This has been an issue that has been on my mind for quite some time. It is a situation or instance I'm sure many have been aware of. But first off, allow me to tell a small anecdote before I begin. So, once upon a time in a classroom several months ago, I was having a discussion about a piece of literature. Two students: student A and student B. Student A makes a claim about the piece of literature they have been reading. Student B likes student A's statement, and asked for more details. Student A replies with more information, then says something along the lines of, "I think the reference is on page 234 third paragraph, or something. Maybe, I may be wrong." Turns out, student A knew exactly where the reference was.
So what is this leading up to? The answer is: doubt. I have seen countless times, people doubting themselves, never confident in what they say, and frankly, it's disturbing. Looking at student A, they knew exactly what they were saying, yet sugar coated it with doubt, using phrases and words like "I think" and "maybe". Why are we so unsure of ourselves? I understand that people nowadays need to sugar coat everything and make others feel good (participation awards and such), but I feel like this idea of equal opportunity is being a bit damaging on individuals. Now, don't get me wrong on equality; I believe all men and women should be treated equally regardless of race, creed, color, religion, identity, sexuality and everything I missed. I am not for everyone getting participation trophies, and everyone winning at least one thing to make them feel better.
Looking at student A, I feel like they didn't want to be considered a "know it all" and seem smarter than their classmates by giving the exact location of a quote in a book. Instead, they used words that weakened their statement.
I personally notice that when I used to write, I would use words that doubted and weakened the statement I was making. My teacher took points off for it (shout out to 12th grade A.P. English Literature). It's no different than speaking in real life. We should be confident in what we say. We should be certain and able to say something positively, and if we're wrong about something, then we simply move on with life.
Personally, whenever I say something with a doubtful phrase and word, I immediately correct myself. I should be proud of what I say. If you can talk with confidence, have evidence and be certain about what you say, then I believe there is nothing that should stop you (unless of course it violates the Constitution by your words being a threat to society or a danger in any way). I hope whoever is reading this will take time to remember a situation where you doubted your words. After that, always keep in mind to be confident when you say something. After all: confidence is key.
