The words we use to communicate may have the same meaning, but they definitely do not project the same image onto the people who are listening. Positive words project a positive personality, while negative words project a weak personality. The person may not even be aware of the image they are projecting. They just got into the habit of using indirect phrasing because those are the words their parents used before them.
Hello, how are you? I’m good, thanks.
Hello, how are you? Not so bad, thanks.
Not so bad is still bad. Good will always be good.
Will you hold onto this pen for a minute, please? I certainly will.
Will you hold onto the pen for a minute, please? No problem.
No problem is a negative reply. I certainly will is positive.
How’s your health lately? I’m in great shape.
How’s your health lately? Can’t complain.
Can’t complain means they could complain; in great shape is definitive.
Will you come to dinner with me?
You wouldn’t like to come to dinner with me, would you?
You would not like, implies you’re expecting a negative answer.
Will you turn down the music, please?
If you wouldn’t mind, would you turn down the music please?
This is another example of expecting a negative answer.
If you don’t clean your room, you won’t get any pocket money.
You’ll get your pocket money when your room is clean.
This is an example of a question vs. a statement. The statement prevents further debate.

As you can see from each of the examples, they all have the same meanin. However, they definitely do not project the same attitude.
The last thing to remember is that your subconscious mind mirrors your words; if you learn to use mostly positive phrases, you will project a positive attitude to everybody you interact with, including you.
“The words you use should be chosen with great care as they will positively or negatively influence all who hear them.” ~Anon
“People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude.” ~ John C. Maxwell
