The Power of Your Language
At La Colectiva, we’ve seen firsthand how small shifts in mindset can create big results, especially in your professional life. One of the most powerful tools you can use to reach your goals is something you may not even realize you’re already using— your language. Specifically, changing the way you talk about your goals from “I will” to “I do.”
This subtle change isn’t just about semantics. It’s about how you align your words with your actions and mindset. Speaking in the present tense creates momentum, helping you feel as if you’ve already achieved success. Let’s dive into how this shift works and how you can use it to take control of your career.
We finish each of our Weekly Mastermind gatherings with action items and commitments. This past week, one of our members shared the action items of, “I will work on my website.” When she shifted her language to, “I have completed my landing page this Friday” she changed the whole game!
Why “I Will” Creates Distance—and “I Do” Closes the Gap
When you say, “I will update my resume” or “I will network more,” you’re putting those tasks off into the future. The statement implies there’s something between where you are now and where you want to be. This gap creates room for procrastination, doubt, and resistance.
But when you say, “I actively grow my network” or “I have an updated resume that reflects my value,” you remove that space. Now, you’re speaking as if the action or result already exists. You are aligning yourself with the outcome, making it easier to follow through. You’re no longer hoping to become a certain type of professional—you are embodying that identity today.
The Psychology Behind Present-Tense Goal Language
1. It Aligns Your Identity with Your Actions
Saying, “I manage my time well,” instead of “I will get more organized,” changes the way you see yourself. When you adopt the identity of someone who is already successful at a task, you naturally start to behave that way. Your actions follow your words, creating consistency and eliminating the friction of trying to become something you’re not yet.
2. It Lowers the Mental Barrier to Action
Future-focused language can make your goals feel distant and daunting. Saying, “I will get a promotion this year,” carries the pressure of a big challenge. In contrast, saying, “I add value to my team every day,” creates a sense that progress is already happening, making it easier to focus on the small, meaningful tasks that lead to long-term success.
3. It Strengthens Confidence and Momentum
When you say, “I excel in my role,” you create a mindset of capability and confidence. That energy motivates you to take action today. Even small wins feel more satisfying because they align with the belief that you are already succeeding. This builds momentum, which is essential for reaching larger career goals.
Examples: How to Use Present-Tense Language for Career Goals
Here’s how you can reframe common career goals and tasks into present-tense affirmations:
Instead of: “I will apply for that leadership role.”
Say: “I bring leadership and initiative to every project I touch.”Instead of: “I will follow up with that contact next week.”
Say: “I am proactive about nurturing professional relationships.”Instead of: “I will work on that task soon.”
Say: “I have completed that task.”Instead of: “I will look for a mentor.”
Say: “I have meaningful conversations with people I admire and learn from them.”
How to Implement This Shift in Your Career
1. Reframe Your Task List as Achievements
At the beginning of the day, write your tasks in the present tense.
Example: “I deliver a clear project update in today’s meeting.”
This not only reinforces the idea that the task is achievable, but it also makes it feel like something you already do—removing hesitation.
2. Use Present-Tense Affirmations in Goal-Setting
If you’re working toward a promotion or career change, rewrite your goals as if they’ve already happened.
Example: “I take on challenges with confidence.”
Speak these affirmations out loud or write them down regularly to reinforce this belief.
3. Visualize Your Workday as Already Successful
Before starting your day, take a moment to imagine yourself succeeding at the tasks ahead. Picture yourself already excelling, whether it’s nailing a presentation, networking with ease, or solving a tough problem. Let that feeling of success guide your actions.
Embodying Success, Starting Today
Your career isn’t something that happens to you—it’s something you create with intention, every day. By shifting from “I will” to “I do,” you’re not just setting goals—you’re embodying them. This present-tense mindset takes the pressure off and helps you feel aligned with success in the here and now.
At La Colectiva, we’re committed to helping professionals like you design work and life in a way that feels meaningful, intentional, and aligned with who you are. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, land a new role, or simply take your career to the next level, success begins with how you think and speak about yourself.
Speak it into existence: Your career growth isn’t waiting—it’s already happening.
Explore our coworking space, attend an event, or meet others in the community who are doing work they love. Your professional goals deserve a space to grow, and La Colectiva is here to support you every step of the way. Let’s build something amazing—together.