This is why commands like these are often ineffective:

• Don’t touch that glass.
• Don’t go anywhere.
• There’s no need to worry.
• Don’t drive into the ditch.

(Parents in particular know what we’re talking about!)

Instead of focusing on what you don’t want, focus on what you do want. (To use a driving analogy, look where you want to go!) Use a positive command instead. So, the directions on the previous screen might look like:

• Please keep your hands on the table.
• Please stay seated.
• Please relax.
• Stay on the road.