October 30, 2004
In languagelog (October 30, 2004) a Spanish study of corporate annual reports, and US presidential candidates. Institutions' and individuals' good performance is negatively correlated with use of the future tense. For corporations, financial performance. For candidates, election.
Let's see, how do I want to say this: Not, "I will use the present tense, to maximize my success." Rather, "I listen to myself and notice, sometimes, that I am predicting a future..." And cease doing so. And find something to observe in the present. And do so now.
Maybe there's more to it, but this is a start. And has the "feel" of increased focus and dominion.
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