Emma LeMay (Marist College '20)
"So this past weekend I was in Cinque Terre, and it was like the best day ever. We climbed this like really big mountain and it was like the coolest thing. The view was like gorgeous. It reminded me of how like the world is so beautiful. It was like amazing."
Something I've noticed about college students is that we say the word, "like" way too often. I've paid attention to how much we say "like" because my professor constantly nags my public speaking and presentation skills class about not using fillers in our speech. She reminds us not to say "like" and "um" in front of an audience or in an informal conversation with our friends. And she has a valid point.
Saying "like" doesn't make you sound super intelligent. It's an unnecessary word that is overused. People who don't say "like" sound like much more natural, cohesive, and confident speakers. It may not seem like a bad habit now, but when it comes to working after college and interviewing for jobs, it will be one.
Here are some tips on how to avoid saying "like" every other word.
Think before you talk.People say "like" a lot because they aren't positive on what they're going to say. Take a moment and think about what you want to say before you start filling your sentences with "like."
Pause.If you feel like you're going to say like, take a moment and pause. It's okay to have a pause mid-sentence. If you start doing this now, you won't say "like" as often because you'll slowly break the habit.
Create a jar.Instead of having a swear jar, have a "like" jar. It sounds silly, but it might actually help. Include your friends too so you can keep tabs on each other.
It's not a super challenging habit to break. It's a simple matter of awareness. If you can teach yourself to not say "like" when answering questions in class, telling stories to your friends and parents, or just talking out and about, chances are it will disappear from your speech. I can guarantee you that you will have more flow when you talk, and you will sound more mature.
I say "like" too, but I've really paid attention to how often I say it. I hope you do the same!
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