Why Suggestions are Better than Demands...

Effective communication is the basis of success in any relationship.

Whether professional, personal, or casual.

There is a distinction between making suggestions and issuing demands.

Suggestions foster collaboration, respect, and a stronger sense of trust.

Let's explore why suggestions are often more impactful than demands.

And how you can incorporate this approach into your style.

The Problem with Demands

When you make a demand, you take away the other person’s choice.

Demands are authoritative and rigid, leaving little room for dialogue or alternative perspectives.

For example:

• Demand: "You need to get this done by tomorrow."
• Result: The recipient may feel pressured, resentful, or even defensive.

There are situations where demands are necessary.

Such as in emergencies or hierarchical structures.

Overusing them can damage relationships and reduce cooperation.

People are less likely to feel motivated or valued when they are ordered around.

Eeven if the demand is reasonable.

The Power of Suggestions

Suggestions create an environment of mutual respect and shared decision-making.

A suggestion invites others to contribute their thoughts or ideas.

Consider this alternative:

• Suggestion: "What do you think about aiming to finish this by tomorrow?"
• Result: The recipient feels involved in the process and is willing to take ownership of the task.

Suggestions are collaborative. They open the door to discussion.

Which can lead to better outcomes and stronger relationships.

People engage and work toward shared goals when heard and respected.

Psychological Benefits of Suggestions

Empowerment: Suggestions give others a sense of freedom and control over their actions.

Reduced Resistance: Less likely to trigger defensiveness or resistance . Because they’re framed as cooperative rather than authoritative.

Encourages Creativity: Suggestions allow room for creativity and alternative solutions.

Strengthens Relationships: Suggestions foster mutual respect, trust, and open dialogue.

Practical Tips for Shifting to Suggestions

Use Open-Ended Questions: Instead of saying, “You should do this,” try asking, “How do you feel about this approach?”

Acknowledge Their Perspective: Frame your suggestion in a way that values the other person’s input, such as, “I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.”

Be Collaborative: Emphasize teamwork with phrases like, “What if we tried this together?” or “Do you think this could work for us?”

Stay Respectful: Even when making suggestions, tone matters. Make sure your delivery is polite and considerate.

Offer Flexibility: Avoid making your suggestion sound like the only option.
For instance, say, “One idea could be to...” instead of, “We have to...”

When Demands Are Necessary

Of course, there are scenarios where demands are unavoidable.

In emergencies, high-stakes situations, or environments where clear authority is essential.

Direct instructions can save time and prevent confusion.

Balance these moments with a broader communication style that leans toward suggestions.

Conclusion

Shifting from demands to suggestions may seem like a small change.

But it can change how people respond to you and how you build relationships.

Suggestions communicate respect and collaboration.

And creates a more positive atmosphere.

So, the next time you’re tempted to make a demand, pause and consider.

How can I frame this as a suggestion instead? The results may surprise you.