Today’s working smarter tip deals with taking a vacation, but it’s not to a physical destination. Instead, it’s a vacation from a word that generally keeps us from taking better care of ourselves. For the next couple of weeks, take a vacation from using the word, “Should.” People often use the word “should” to manipulate others or to motivate themselves through guilt. For example, you might say, “I should spend more time with my family” or “I should be working instead of taking time off.” In each case, the word should creates a sense of guilt about what you are not doing.

To take a should vacation, use the phrase, “I choose” instead. For example, “I choose to work” or “I choose to be with my family.” Using the word “choose” puts you in charge of the decision making process rather than creating “guilt” over what you “should” be doing.