WORDS THAT WORK · BRAD INDUSTRIES

Words that work

For the messages that are hard to send. Every guide has lines you can copy, and a short list of what Brad would send instead. Please don’t send those.

How to tell someone you need space (without starting a fight)“I need space” is three words, and most people hear the scariest version of them. Brad certainly does. Better words are below, ready to copy.
What to text after a fight with your partner (or anyone)The fight is over. The quiet isn’t. Brad has drafted forty first texts and deleted every one. These are better, and they’re ready to copy.
How to apologize without making excuses (or making it about you)Brad apologizes the way he does everything: at length, with exhibits. By paragraph four, the other person is comforting him. These are shorter, and they land better.
How to ask for reassurance without sounding needyEverybody needs to hear “we’re okay” sometimes. The trouble starts when the question comes out sideways, as a test or a hint. Brad only knows sideways. Better words are below, ready to copy.
How to tell someone you’re overwhelmed (by text or in person)Overwhelm is hard to explain from inside it, because words are often the first thing to go. These lines are ready before you need them.
How to say no without feeling guilty (or being rude)Customer Service, the crew member who keeps everyone happy, has said yes to four things this week that nobody should have said yes to. These words are for him. And you.

Texts Brad has on file