In meetings, the inconsiderate use of “why not” can derail conversations and create a false sense of consensus, leading to laziness and a lack of accountability among team members.
That’s why I strongly discourage (if not ban) the use of the phrase and welcome thoughtful contributions instead of surface-level suggestions.
Additionally, real experts should be respected in meetings, regardless of their position or level. Team members should be allowed to contribute and have their input considered, rather than just functioning as “voting members” to make decisions based on the majority, which only promotes mediocrity.
The key takeaway is to be more mindful in meetings by transforming “why not” into constructive suggestions. This small change can significantly enhance the quality of discussions and decision-making processes, fostering a more engaged and productive environment.
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