JUST is a DIRTY WORD (part 1 of n)

Thank you for asking why the worst 5-letter word is "just."

"Why" is a remarkable word. "Just," on the other hand, sucks.

What follows is a short tirade on why "just" might be the worst five-letter word for any startup. 

At its core, the word "just" seems innocuous enough, but it's a word that can subtly undermine the complexities and efforts inherent in the startup environment. In a world where every step is a leap, and every decision can pivot the future, "just" minimizes you and your teams' monumental efforts and challenges.

Underestimation of Effort: When we say things like "just do it" or "just call the client," we inadvertently simplify complex and nuanced tasks. In startups, where resources are limited, and stakes are high, every action requires careful thought and strategy. The word "just" can undervalue the effort and planning needed to execute these tasks effectively.

Innovation Diminishment: Startups are innovation hubs; often, you try to solve problems or create products that haven't been tackled before. Using "just" in phrases like "it's just another app" or "just another service" can belittle the uniqueness and innovation that your startup is bringing to the table.

Impact on Morale: Hearing your work reduced to a "just" can demoralize a team pouring their heart and soul into a project. It can make the long hours and dedication less significant and impact your team's morale and motivation.

Overlooked Challenges: Startups often operate in uncharted territories, and what might seem like a "just" could be a complex challenge with no straightforward solution. Phrases like "we'll just..." ignore the intricacy of user needs, market fit, user experience, scalability, and financial sustainability.

Communication Tone: Every word counts in communication, especially in a high-pressure environment like a startup. "Just" can come across as dismissive or condescending, even unintentionally. It's essential to communicate in a way that acknowledges challenges and shows respect for the effort involved.

And that's just a tiny part of why, while "just" is a small word, its impact on a startup's culture, efficacy, and perception can be significant. It's a reminder that recognizing and understanding efforts and challenges are as crucial as the solutions in your startup's dynamic and often tumultuous journey.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this perspective.
Drop us a line at why@rebelandhart.com

Best regards,

The curious team at Rebel & Hart