The challenge(ˈCHalənj): Don’t speak in future tense(tens)

The challenge(ˈCHalənj): Don’t speak in future tense(tens)

By Derek Sivers

When I lived in Los Angeles, I noticed(ˈnōtis) they have a strange speaking pattern.

Everyone speaks in future tense. (Or, more specifically(spəˈsifik), present(priˈzent,ˈprezənt)-tense inaction(inˈakSHən), future-tense action.)

“This guy from EMI is interested and going to be presenting it to the VP.”

“We’re in talks to do a pilot(ˈpīlət) for the fall.”

“I’m getting ready to work on some new material(məˈti(ə)rēəl) with a hit writer.”

Of course these are the things some people have to tell themselves to be hopeful when facing another day of challenges.

But of course nothing materializes(məˈti(ə)rēəˌlīz). You never hear it mentioned again, and you politely(pəˈlīt) don’t ask. (Surprising circumstances(-stəns,ˈsərkəmˌstans) always foiled(foil) the certain(ˈsərtn) event.)

I felt like wearing a t-shirt that says, “TELL ME WHEN IT’S ACTUALLY HAPPENING.”

So now when I hear a future-tense sentence(ˈsentns), my ears shut down. I’ll say “cool!” and hope it helps, but I don’t believe a word.

Try noticing this in yourself and others for a week. Are you speaking more in future tense or present tense? Are they?

Remember that announcing(əˈnouns) your plans makes them less likely to happen.

https://sivers.org/futuretense