The Best Two-Word Motivational Phrase EVER

By leadership author and motivational keynote speaker Ross Shafer

Looking for a Simple Way to Motivate Yourself and Your Team?

When it comes to workplace motivation and personal growth, sometimes two simple words can be more powerful than an entire speech. I learned this truth decades ago on a college football field—but the message has stuck with me throughout my entire career as a motivational speaker and leadership coach.

Meet the Man Behind the Mantra

In college, I played linebacker for the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington. Our coach was the unforgettable Paul Wallrof, a 6’5″, 260-pound powerhouse we all called Big Wally. Imagine a man whose enthusiasm made Tony Robbins seem reserved. His voice could be heard two zip codes away—and when he was fired up, everyone listened.

Big Wally had a way of cutting through the noise with one phrase that changed how we viewed failure, setbacks, and mistakes.

The Two Words That Built Resilient Leaders

Whenever something went wrong—whether it was a fumble, a missed tackle, or a blown opportunity—Coach Wally would yell, “SO WHAT?!”

• The other team scores a touchdown? So what?!

• You miss a key block? So what?!

• You make a costly mistake? So what?! Fix it and get back out there.

Those two words became our rallying cry for resilience.

And you know what? They still are.

Why “So What?!” Still Works Today

In business, setbacks are inevitable. But how we respond to them defines our trajectory. Here’s how the “SO WHAT?!” mindset can transform your workplace:

• Missed a big sale? So what—learn and move on.

• Late to a meeting? So what—fix the calendar error and do better next time.

• A young team member fumbles a task? Don’t shame them. Walk up and say, So what? You’ll crush the next one.

That mindset builds confidence, accountability, and emotional intelligence. And it prevents us from letting one mistake define our entire career.

The Long-Term Impact of Letting Go and Moving Forward

Years later, I attended a football reunion with 60 of my former teammates—and guess what phrase came up again and again?

SO WHAT.

Those two words helped shape us into resilient, successful adults. It’s a mindset I carry with me to every keynote stage—and it’s one your team needs now more than ever.

Bring the “So What?!” Energy to Your Next Event

If you’re planning a leadership retreat, sales meeting, or company conference, give your audience the tools to bounce back, own their mistakes, and thrive under pressure.

As a motivational keynote speaker, I specialize in helping teams stay relevant, agile, and resilient in uncertain times. I’ll deliver a message your people will never forget—and it starts with two powerful words.

 Book Ross Shafer to speak at your next event and inspire your team to embrace mistakes, adapt quickly, and move forward with confidence.