"Let's be practical!" is one of a series of phrases taught to developing leaders to demonstrate that they can sound strong and in control. It sounds obvious and clear what the person who says it is asking for. But sometimes, as in all communication, there is a code message at play.
Two other meanings behind "Let's Be Practical!":
1: I have reached the edge of my understanding in this area, and I am not willing to own that reality, so I am going to project that problem onto you. Your action: propose me something that I can fit into my existing worldview, and only then will I be ready to act. Because let me assure you, what has got me here will absolutely work in every eventuality in the future. You just need to align with that fact.
2: Don't scare me. I think I am beginning to glimpse what your non-practical proposal actually implies—for me, my team, and this business. And I am not ready to go there. So, dial it back until I only feel confident and safe. There is no room for risk, or faith, around here.
Another in this series of strong leadership phrases is "That's enough talk, let's take action!"
It could well be that the best way out of a meeting that has devolved into a series of circular, seemingly never-ending conversations where participants get to share their opinions, interpretations, and suggestions, is to interrupt that pattern and say: "Well, what would taking action on this issue tomorrow actually look like?"
But it could be that there's a conversation going on that is naming an uncomfortable reality, and the easiest possible way out of that discomfort is to start—too soon—on the action plan. Even as we are assigning initials to the actions, there is a sense in the room that this is not going to create change. But at least "action!" is better than dealing with an uncomfortable reality, yes?
A third phrase is "Let's get straight to the point!" To which my response is usually: "Whose point are we getting to, and why that one?"
