The word “but” is the enemy. “But” limits our thinking; “but” limits creativity; “but” shuts people down. Everything before a “but” is negated. “I really like your idea but . . .” says I really don’t like your idea.
Find opportunities to replace the word “but” with “and.” “I really like your idea and I was thinking . . .” says I heard you and I also have a perspective without negating your perspective. Start counting the number of times you use “but” or you hear it in meetings. You will see how often “but” rears its insidious head. By the way, don’t fool yourself—words like “however” and “except” are just fancy “buts.”