At About Age 3
“But Mom, I need one.”
“No.”
“Why?”
“Because.”
Around age 3 1/2, iit becomes, “Because I said so.”
That’s when we begin to learn the power of the word because. That one word becomes ingrained in our mind. That one word because — becomes a reason for anything. Our parents teach us that.
Studies Prove It
Every parent knows the power of because. I read about it and learned even more about it when I was teaching first grade. This weekend when you’re out watch how often parents use it with kids. Think of your own experiences.
Then ask yourself, do I use it enough?
People like to know why things are happening, even when the reasons are obvious. When people don’t hear the why, they often don’t cooperate. They speculate — they fill-in missing information they seek with a negative. There’s no reason to leave people wondering why about anything. There’s always a because that will help out in some way.
Brian talked about the power of because and you. I’ve talked about because and you also. T his week, It’s a Numeric Life covered a study much like the one I first encountered about the word because.
If you don’t know how people respond to this powerful word, it’s worth a serious look. The data is amazing. Using that one word can get people on our side, get them willing to help and be on our team. That powerful word because should be central to every brand and our promotion strategy.
The relationship — the you and me — is everything that counts.
Why? Because without you, there is only me.
–ME “Liz” Strauss
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