Three Terms We Need to Reframe and Sunset in 2026
- Success Manager
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Coach Michael Sgro often argues that some popular workplace phrases actually hold people back rather than help them. Here’s the reasoning he gives for why we should reframe and stop saying these three terms—and what to use instead.
1. “Imposter Syndrome”
Why we should stop using it:
The phrase frames self-doubt as a personal flaw, when doubt is a normal response to growth or feeling uncomfortable.
It subtly tells capable people: “You don’t really belong here”, even when they do.
Labeling it as a “syndrome” can make people feel broken instead of developing skills.
It also is a falsehood according to the science of the #DunningKrugerEffect and just lacking confidence of experience.
What we can reframe it as:
Being in a learning phase
Stretching out discomfort
Skill acquisition in progress
Core idea: Feeling unsure usually means you’re expanding, not faking.
2. “Work-Life Balance”
Why we need to challenge this term:
“Balance” suggests a perfect, constant 50/50 split—which is unrealistic.
Life and work come in seasons, not equal portions.
Chasing balance can create guilt when one side needs more attention.
Balance should be framed as a daily understanding of the current human condition.
What is preferable instead:
Alignment of self and our human goals
Intentional trade-offs
Seasonal priorities
Core idea: Some seasons require more work, others more life—and that’s normal.
3. “Boundaries”
The word is often misused:
You are not a sovereign country requiring distance or rules between others at work
Boundaries are sometimes used as a shield to avoid discomfort, growth, or accountability.
People use the term without communicating expectations or commitments.
It can become passive instead of proactive.
What we should emphasize instead:
Clear standards, values and expectations with all relationships
Direct communication on how you want feedback from others (Platinum Rule)
Personal responsibility
Literally replace the word, with the word EXPECTATIONS, which are invitations to human success.
Core idea: Expectations aren’t walls; they’re agreements you consistently uphold for mutual benefit.
The Bigger Message
Language shapes behavior. If your words frame you as:
broken → you stop growing
overwhelmed → you disengage
powerless → you wait instead of take action.
Coach Sgro encourages replacing labels with ownership-based language that promotes action, learning and growth.