Trying to navigate office politics is the wrong time to get your foot caught in your mouth. But it’s all too easy to say something emotional, defensive, or downright negative when you’re under stress. (Seriously, we’ve all done this.) The good news is, you can be both honest and constructive when dealing with issues at work—it just takes a bit of practice. Part of that first step is knowing how damaging these five phrases can be:

1. “I’m so busy, I haven’t had time!” Everyone is busy. Unfortunately, this phrase communicates that the task at hand is not a priority to you, even though it might be a priority to someone else. So instead of explaining why the task hasn’t been done, try explaining when it will be done: “I’ll have this ready for you next Monday.”
2. “That’s the way we’ve always done it.” Questioning a long-held procedure can only be a good thing—it forces you to examine practices that have become status quo. Show some flexibility when someone questions a procedure, because you don’t want to appear rigid, negative, and not open to change (even though change can be scary!). If someone offers a suggestion, keep an open mind! Work together to explore the pros and cons of any proposed changes.
3. “That’s not my job/problem.” That answer is the fastest way to get you banished to the “Not a Team Player” bench. Remember, you’re all working on the same team, so a problem affects everyone. When someone comes to you with a request, ask yourself what you can do to help and, if you’re slammed, when you would be able to offer that help. If something genuinely falls outside your realm of expertise, refer the requestor to someone who can help.
4. “That doesn’t make sense.” When you’re tempted to say this, ask yourself if the idea makes no sense because you don’t understand it or because you think it’s ridiculous? The other person offered up the idea for a reason that made sense to them. So before you go on a morale-crushing tirade, try, “I’m not sure I understand. Why do you think that’s the best choice?”
5. “I just assumed…” Let’s start with that old saying about what happens when you ass-u-me, and presume you don’t want to make anyone look like a pack animal. If you did operate on an (incorrect) assumption, a miscommunication has likely occurred. This time, clarify expectations after the fact; in the future, be sure to clarify all expectations up front. Don’t open yourself to an assumption that could be wrong!

So there you have it—open mouth, extract foot. And next time you’re feeling stressed or frazzled at work, take a breath and think before you speak. It could have a huge impact on your work relationships!