Communication is everything.
As physios, how we connect with our patients can make or break the success of a therapy. Real change only happens when patients are truly on board—engaged, willing, and involved in their own healing journey.
One simple but powerful communication shift that works not just in therapy, but in life?
Swap “Yes, but” with “Yes, and.”
It keeps conversations open, builds trust, and invites collaboration instead of resistance.
I first encountered this idea in Dale Carnegie’s classic How to Win Friends and Influence People. A must-read for anyone working with people. Later, I saw Vinh Giang share the same technique on social media, and it clicked even more. He helped me understand not just why it works, but when to use it. I still have to consciously practice it, but I’ve been applying it more—both with patients and in everyday life.
So why is it so powerful?
Because when someone criticizes us, our first instinct is often:
“Yes, but…”
The problem? That tiny word “but” immediately dismisses what the other person said. It fuels tension and keeps the conversation stuck in defense mode.
Here’s an example:
“Your therapy is too expensive.”
If you answer:
“Yes, but I’m offering individual care and write down treatment plans for my patients so they get the best treatment possible, even without supervision.”
You’re technically correct—but the tone feels defensive. And the other person often responds defensively in return. A downward spiral.
Now compare that to:
“Yes, and the reason for that is that I’m offering individual care and write down treatment plans so patients get the best results—even when I’m not around.”
Same message. Totally different vibe.
It doesn’t feel like you’re rejecting the other person—it feels like you’re building on their perspective. Collaboration instead of conflict.
Using “Yes, and” in a tough conversation gently steers things in a positive direction. Meanwhile, “Yes, but” usually signals a polite “no” or hidden criticism—and people sense it.
This small language tweak doesn’t mean you always have to agree. But it helps you stay open, respectful, and constructive—the kind of energy that makes therapy sessions and everyday interactions far more effective.
🧪 Let’s Experiment
A tiny word can change it all.
It’s a small shift, but it can completely change how the conversation flows.
🎯 Try This:
Next time you catch yourself saying “Yes, but,” pause and try “Yes, and” instead. You’ll likely notice the conversation softens, the other person feels heard, and you stay out of defense mode. Rather than dismissing their point, you acknowledge it and build on it, creating space for a more open and collaborative dialogue.
🧠 Final Thought:
This tiny tweak doesn’t solve every disagreement, but it changes the energy. Over time, it makes conversations smoother, more constructive, and more rewarding—for both you and the people you interact with.
Keep it simple, stay curious, and keep learning—you’ve got this.
Take care,
Carina 🦊