Sorry, but I think this particular Yoda-ism is only helpful in certain circumstances. For example, if your student is whining about being unable to accomplish a certain task (e.g., raising a submerged X-wing from a Dagobian swamp) and then, reluctantly, says that he'll "try" to do it, yes, it is appropriate to say this to him.
If, however, your spouse doesn't see things the same way you do, and, after much lecturing by you, agrees to "try to do things your way" in order to quell your incessant criticism and for the betterment of the relationship, this is not the time to say, "I don't want you to 'try'. I want you to 'do'." Because, hey, be happy with the fact that your spouse, contrary to his own understanding of the difference between a clean house in his eyes, and a clean house in your eyes, has compromised with you. Don't rub salt in it.
