University of Minnesota - UMN Executive Leadership Insights
Never Say Whatever
Book

Never Say Whatever

How Small Decisions Make a Big Difference

Richard A. Moran
McGraw-Hill, 2023
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Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Applicable
  • Concrete Examples
  • Engaging

Recommendation

Many people take a “whatever” attitude toward everything, but not author Richard Moran. He contends that this flat, non-response to all situations and decisions, big and small, is a waste. In his eyes, people who don’t care about their own choices condemn themselves to inaction and rob their lives of meaning. In this “anti-whatever workbook,” Moran calls for a total about-face. He argues passionately that caring and trying to improve the world through your actions and positive decisions separates people from beasts. Do you care? Or are you detached or without direction? Moran is here to explain how and why to start caring, making intelligent decisions and acting on them.

Summary

Saying “whatever” communicates disengagement and dismissal.

Every year, Marist College in New York conducts a survey to determine the most hated word Americans use in ordinary conversation. Each year, one word always wins: “whatever” – the three-syllable manifesto of complaint, lack of thought or consideration, and outright dismissal of effort, teamwork and cooperation. 

Saying “whatever” is not just a casual dismissal of the problem or situation in front of you; it signals that you don’t care – an attitude that doesn’t affect only you, the speaker, but everyone around you. “Whatever” is a wishy-washy, risk-averse dodge that impedes or denies commitment and delays decision-making. And, the fact is that your decisions matter. Choices and the actions you take in response to those choices make your life meaningful. You may not be a CEO or team leader, but you are in charge of your life and career, an opportunity you don’t want to waste.

Intentional people understand that even minor decisions can be vital.

People who never say “whatever” are intentional, engaged, self...

About the Author

Richard A. Moran, PhD hosts the CBS syndicated radio program, “In the Workplace.” He is an author, business leader and venture capitalist.

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