THE POWER OF WORDS
WHY PEOPLE SAY “I DON’T CARE
GOOD COMMUNICATION
LEADERSHIP 101
TALKING IT OUT — CONVERSATION, DEBATE, OR ARGUMENT
100

This four-word phrase reminds us that our language can influence how others feel

words have power

100

Some people say “I don’t care” to hide this emotion.

insecurity or hurt feelings

100

A good communicator listens just as much as they do this.

talk

100

This quality helps leaders support others and understand their feelings

empathy

100

This type of discussion is friendly, relaxed, and used to share thoughts.

a conversation 

200

This can happen when someone hears something differently from how it was meant.

What is misunderstanding or misinterpretation?

200

Saying “I don’t care” might be used to deflect attention from this.

themselves

200

This type of speaking considers how words might be heard, not just how they are said.

thoughtful communication

200

Good leaders communicate clearly and do this before making decisions.

Listen


200

This is a structured exchange where two sides try to support their ideas with reasons.

Debate

300

Being careful and thoughtful before speaking helps reduce this common communication problem.

What is a message getting messed up or changed

300

A person might copy this group just to fit in, even if they don’t mean the words.

friends or peers

300

When someone repeats a message in their own words to check understanding, it is called this.

showing active listening / understanding 

300

True leaders inspire others by setting this type of example.

A positive example

300

This happens when emotions take over and people try to “win” instead of understand.

An argument 

400

If a message wouldn’t feel good to hear about yourself, this is what you should NOT do.

What is say it to someone else?

400

Sometimes people act this way without realizing it can be emotionally painful to others.

not understanding how much it can hurt

400

Good communicators avoid assuming this about how their message will be understood.

that others know exactly what they mean

400

This leadership trait means doing what is right even when no one is watching.

Integrity 

400

A debate can stay healthy and respectful only if both sides do this.

Listen to each other
500

Name at least 1 thing you should think about before responding to someone. "Is it ______?"

True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, or Kind.  

500

Saying “I don’t care” might be used to show this feeling, even if they don’t truly have it.

feeling powerful or included

500

This is what we should check before speaking to prevent misunderstandings

our intention or impact

500

Leaders who think before they speak are practicing this core communication principle.

being thoughtful and intentional

500

Conversations to try make connection, debates try to gain clarity, and arguments often try to have this.

Winning or being right