Almost three years ago I wrote about calling on you, the reader, to Stop Saying “Should” to yourself.

I took a re-read of it the other day, and I still believe that.

Consider taking a trip down memory lane and giving it a read.

People Managers: I implore you, please don’t use “should” with your direct reports. Consider offering other paths to help them find their way. Instead of saying, “You should have done _____”, you can ask, “What kept you from exploring _______? How might you incorporate ____ into your thinking next time?”