Welcome back to Word of the Week! Using the same words all the time because they come easily are lost opportunities, each and every time. 
When you use a truly right-but maybe unexpected-word, listeners really hear what you say. They can connect on a different level, and you elevate yourself, and the conversation.
I love the power of ordinary, but under-used, or forgotten words for SO many reasons; so for the New Year I am re-focusing on this series of powerful words and this Word of the Week is CONSTRUCTIVE.
Today, it was every sixth word used in press conferences to describe the deal-making machinations that were going on regarding the Fiscal Cliff. Spot-on in any negotiation situation, but PERFECT for the housing industry-think of all the parallels: Reconciling opposing needs and often strong beliefs, the mix of many personalities, MONEY, delays and deadlines, all with the goal that each side is satisfied, feeling that maybe they did a little bit better than the other side.
Positive and non-inflammatory, it's a buffer word. Both neutral and a sign of engagement, it doesn't tip anyone's hand, or tell you anything specific, other than both sides are still talking, trying to work things out. CONSTRUCTIVE is collaborative. It's common ground, it finds what is agreed-on, and builds on it.
An adjective, CONSTRUCTIVE is defined as 'serving a useful purpose, tending to build up. Also-helping to improve, promoting further development or advancement'. It can dial things down, and it's a great choice to draw people in, or bring sides closer to center, without sounding judgemental or prissy, or indicating that anyone is 'giving in'.
CONSTRUCTIVE keeps its eye on the prize, and focuses on completing a task-NO WONDER The Refreshed Home likes it so much!
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