17 Things Successful People Never Say

Sometimes the difference between success and failure is all in your attitude.

Here's an interesting perspective on changing what you say to a can-do approach at life from Darlene Price with Well Said, INC. and the author of "Well Said! Presentations and Conversations That Get Results."

Here's a condensed version of a good article about the power of positive thinking and speaking on YAHOO.

Throughout history, philosophers have talked about the importance and the power of the words that we speak, and here’s a list of things that successful people never say.

- "I have no choice," or, "I had no choice."

Successful people always see the options, regardless of the circumstances. To say we have no choice in the matter means that we see ourselves as a victim.

- "I should have," or, "I could have."

The words "should," "could," and "ought" suggest regret, blame, finger-pointing, and fault, whether you say them to yourself or another person. Successful people don't wallow in the past.

- "I can't do that," or, "That's impossible," or, "That can't be done."

Not only are these words self-limiting, others see them as pessimistic and unhelpful.

Achievers know there are many roadblocks on the road to success — barriers that may stall or stump, but never stop them. They either remove the barrier, or figure out a way to go around it.

-"That's not my job," or, "I don't get paid enough for this," or, "That's not my problem."

Successful people help others succeed. As billionaire Warren Buffett says, "Someone's sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago."

- "But we've always done it that way," or, "That's not the way we do it here."

Successful people are passionate about finding a better way of doing something.

- "It's not fair."

Successful people are proactive about issues versus reactive. Instead of complaining or whining, they take action.

- "He's a jerk," or, "She's lazy," or, "My job stinks," or, "I hate this company."

Successful people avoid words of judgment, insult, and negativity. Nothing tanks a career faster than name-calling or mudslinging.