Have a good day versus have as good of a day as you can

Hi Readers,
Today I wanted to talk to you about the differences, as I see them, between the phrases, “have a good day” and “have as good a day as you can.” In my life and work, I’ve been trying to use the second phrase as often as possible.

I thought highlighting the differences between these two phrases, at least the way I see them, might give anyone reading this, further insight into mental health topics like autonomy and agency. These two topics kind of go hand-in-hand. Autonomy refers to one’s ability to do things on one’s own, while agency, often refers to the ability of one to do things for oneself, or advocate for what they need, and or one’s ability to have power with in a situation.

So, what does this have to do with the difference between saying “have a good day” and “have as good of a day as you can?” Well, in my mind, the first phrase although well-intentioned, can sometimes come across as an order. This can be especially relevant if the person you are saying, “have a good day” to, is in a frame of mind where they feel like they don’t have the energy to have a good day, or like their day is not going to get any better within the next little while.

By contrast, saying “have as good of a day as you can,” at least in my mind, puts the power back into the hands of the individual you’re speaking to. It reminds them that they get to decide how good a day they’re having, and whether or not they have the power to make it better.

This phraseology is also good, in my opinion, because it allows whoever you’re speaking to the option, that you, as their conversation partner, realize that they may not be able to have a good day today, but you are still hopeful that they will.

So, readers, now that I’ve given you my two cents, what do you all think, will you start using, “ have as good of a day as you can,” in place of “have a good day,” or do you think it is slightly crunchy?

What are some phrases that conversation partners have used with you which have really helped you feel like you have power in a difficult situation?

Are there phrases that you wish would be more en vogue because they are helpful in providing you with a sense of agency?

Ultimately, whatever phrase you choose to use is up to you, and as with everything I post, this is not intended to be a one-size-fits-all model.

Your language may change depending on who you’re speaking with, what the conversation is about, or even external factors like the weather, season, or time of day.

I guess what I’m trying to say, is that language is important.

I think it is always a good idea to think about the type of language we use and with who, because language can have an impact on all parties.

It can be difficult, at least for me, to realize this in the moment, that’s why I have chosen to write about it.

I hope this post has given all of you food for thought, and I’m interested to have further conversations with you about this topic in the comments.
Sincerely yours,

Sorloquator