I recently have found myself saying or writing the word “just” during various conversations or e-mails. When I look at the sentence, I realize I’m using the word “just” as a filler. And actually, I might be using it because I’m giving a hidden apology or not extremely comfortable with the overall sentiment.
I am now doing my part to eradicate the word “just” from my vocabulary unless of course I truly just mean it for the sake of the word itself. I recommend you take a look at your writing and try to listen to yourself when you use the word. Are you apologizing for something? Are you unsure about what you’re writing? Are you just plain not comfortable with what you’re saying?
If your use of the word “just” falls into any of these or similar contexts, I challenge you to just take out the word “just.” Just make a statement without the word “just.” Just write an e-mail without using the word as a filler. Then feel and see how much more affirmative you sound in your delivery. Just say what you mean.