Using the Word "Try" is a Little Bit Tricky

At a recent office meeting, we were discussing the word "try" or "trying" and the fact that there is no such thing as "trying." You either are or are not.

You can't try to eat. You are either eating to not eating.
You can't try to sleep. You are either awake or asleep.
You can't try to walk. You are either walking or not walking.

So if you are asked whether or not you finished a project. Don't respond with, "Well, I'm trying." That just means "No, I haven't." Just say that. Otherwise you would be answering, "Yes, I'm finished."

The following excerpt was taken from a blog entry that shares the same sentiment.

"That is one of the greatest lies you can tell yourself or your children. "Trying" is a word meant to rationalize failure. It's an excuse. In truth, when reaching for any objective, short term or long term, you either succeed or you don't. There is no in-between. Trying, therefore, is a non-reality.... 'I tried' is a quitter's statement. It says you have either given up or decided that not reaching your goals is an okay way to continue to live your life."

So don't just try. Just do!