Examples of proactive language

Answer 1

"Proactive" implies "action", "to act", "to do" and further, to have an attitude consistent with "I can do".

Therefore, proactive language emphasizes, "I can do" in statements.

Examples:

Rather than:

I can't do math.

Say instead:

I can do regular math, but I need more help with algebra.

Rather than:

I can't do algebra.

Say instead:

I understand simple equations, but I need more instruction to understand complicated equations.

Rather than a patient saying:

I can't walk.

Say instead:

I can walk without pain about 30 feet, but my pain gets worse if I try to go further.

Rather than:

I don't want to eat vegetables.

Say instead:

I prefer corn or green beans more than peas or carrots.

Rather than:

I don't understand.

Say instead:

I'm trying to understand.

Rather than:

I can't stand Miss M. for English because she gives more homework.

Say instead:

I prefer Mr. G. for English because he gives less homework.

Rather than:

I won't clean my room.

Say instead:

I choose to clean my room in an hour, after I finish my homework.

Words like choose indicate willingness as well as taking responsibility for actions.

See how many times you can change "I can''t" into positive, proactive statements.