The Idioms To Avoid and their Replacements- Sharpen your success factor by minimizing the negative idioms in your language and maximizing the opposites:  

  • “It’s always darkest before the dawn” – This idiom is often used to suggest that things will get worse before they get better, which can be a very negative and discouraging outlook.  The opposite could be “Every cloud has a silver lining,” meaning that even in difficult situations, there is something positive to be found. 
  • “It is what it is” – This idiom implies that a situation cannot be changed or improved, and suggests a sense of resignation or defeat.  The opposite could be “Everything happens for a reason,” meaning that even if something is challenging or unpleasant, there may be a purpose or lesson to be learned from it.
  • “The glass is half empty” – This idiom is often used to describe a negative outlook or perspective, where the focus is on what’s missing or lacking rather than what’s present.  The opposite could be “The glass is half full,” meaning that a more positive outlook focuses on what’s present and possible rather than what’s lacking.
  • “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” – This idiom suggests that it’s difficult or impossible to change established habits or patterns, and can be a very defeatist and negative attitude. The opposite could be “It’s never too late to learn,” meaning that change and growth are always possible at any age or stage of life.
  • “Better the devil you know than the devil you don’t” – This idiom suggests that it’s safer or better to stick with a familiar but unpleasant situation than to risk something new, which can be a very negative and limiting outlook. The opposite could be “Take a leap of faith,” meaning that sometimes it’s important to take risks and try something new in order to grow and improve.

  • “Expect the worst and hope for the best” – This idiom suggests that a negative outlook is more realistic than a positive one, and can be a very pessimistic and defeatist attitude. The opposite could be “Visualize success,” meaning that a positive outlook and belief in oneself can lead to better outcomes.
  • “It’s all downhill from here” – This idiom suggests that things will only get worse, which can be a very negative and discouraging outlook. The opposite could be “The sky’s the limit,“ meaning that there are endless possibilities and potential for growth and success.
  • “It’s a lost cause” – This idiom suggests that a situation is beyond repair or hope, and can be a very defeatist and negative attitude. The opposite could be “Never give up,” meaning that persistence and determination can overcome even seemingly impossible challenges.
  • “There’s no use crying over spilled milk” – This idiom suggests that it’s pointless to dwell on past mistakes or failures, but can also imply a sense of resignation or defeat.  The opposite could be “Learn from your mistakes,” meaning that setbacks and failures can provide valuable lessons and opportunities for growth.
  • “It’s the same old story” – This idiom suggests that a situation is unchanging or repetitive, and can be a very negative and limiting outlook.  The opposite could be “Change is inevitable,” meaning that life is always changing and evolving, and there are always new opportunities and experiences to be had.

By Bill Stokes

Coach, teacher, entrepreneur, motivational speaker

Facebook: TheStokesReport
Twitter: @Sagacity919