The Power of “Okay”
The word, “Okay” or “OK” has a puzzling past with conflicting reports regarding its origin. Wherever it came from, it has become one of the most useful words in the English language. It offers a powerful reorientation to the struggles in life, whether those struggles are relational or logistical.
Just in case you have been overlooking or underusing this word, I would like to offer an expanded translation of the term. Of course, words take on different meanings in different contexts. So, let me clarify that I am not referring to the rather mild and common response to, “How are you doing?” I am referring to an intentional posture toward any of the many challenges that are thrown at us in life.
Here is the expanded translation of “Okay.”
I understand that this is the reality I am faced with and I accept the responsibility of developing and implementing a strategy for my response that is in keeping with what I believe is right and true and in keeping with my obligations and priorities. For the moment I will refrain from expending any energy, whether words or actions, destined to fail because I would be trying to change something I cannot change. I reserve the right, at any time in the future, to reassess the situation and change my strategy. I accept the responsibility to feel, and properly manage, sadness, hurt, anger, anxiety or other emotions that flow from my response. It would be a mistake for you to interpret my response as an endorsement or approval of the situation at hand. I am not making a statement of what is right or wrong. I am simply preparing myself for more productive action.
Like many powerful messages, sometimes the fewer words used the better. The word can often stand up well even when it is the only word spoken. Additionally, it comes in two versions, audible and inaudible.
You’re not buying it? I haven’t convinced you. You haven’t really found this post helpful (even though, if you respond now, you can try out your own unlimited supply of ”Okay” with no obligation?)
… Okay
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Guest Author
i agree. i forgot about your ability to use words to explain ideas and feelings that i don’t have words for.
okay is surrender.
Thank you. The expanded translation of “okay” was just printed and put next to the kitchen sink…..
This definition has been so helpful for me the last couple of weeks; especially in dealing with hard personalities at work. As I’m forced to meekly say OK in response to an order, remembering this definition gives me an inner strength. My favorite sentence is “It would be a mistake for you to interpret my response as an endorsement or approval of the situation at hand.” Thank you, Dr. Hamilton.