The “Maybe” Trap

Don’t hedge with this

Maybe is an incredible word, except when you use it to hide.

You know what I’m talking about.

Here is an example:

Sitting at a networking function, you’re at the table with someone charming, but talking about something that you have zero interest in. She turns to you and asks about hopping on the phone next week. You reply “maybe” and a  conversation that should end doesn’t.

Now both you and she spend time in a conversation that didn’t have to happen.

In that context, the speaker used the word “maybe” to hide a “no,” which tends to have unintended consequences.

• You’ve wasted personal time, as well as someone else’s.
• You’re spending energy trying to “manifest” a “no” down the line.
• The relationship you developed at dinner could work for someone else you know. Now that’s out because of the results in the two previous bullets.