Vague terms like “ASAP” and “priority” can create unnecessary stress and confusion in the workplace. When someone says “this is a priority,” it’s unclear what they mean. Does it need to be done immediately, by the end of the day, or by the end of the week? Such ambiguity leads to miscommunication and wasted time. Wes emphasizes that while these words aren't inherently wrong, using them without context can lead to anxiety and inefficient work. To communicate urgency effectively, Wes suggests being specific about both the sequence of tasks and the timeline. For instance, instead of saying “let’s review this soon,” a clearer approach would be, “let’s plan to review the strategy doc at our 1:1 on Thursday.” He provides various scripts to guide communication, like prioritizing one task over others or clarifying what can wait. This method not only helps prioritize work but also allows managers and direct reports to understand each other better. Being explicit about needs and deadlines fosters more productive conversations and ensures everyone is aligned on expectations.