I can’t eat that cookie because I am on a diet.
I can’t come to the party because I have too much to do.
I can’t do sports regularly because I don’t have enough time.
Let’s admit it: We all use these excuses from time to time.
And let’s admit one more thing: We all want to live better, happier lives.
There is no end of personal growth. Even the most energetic, most balanced, and productive people can further develop themselves to be happier and more fulfilled each day.
As Lou Holtz once stated:
“In this world you’re either growing or you’re dying so get in motion and grow.”
I definitely chose to grow every day of my life, and I sincerely believe the hard times and global challenges we are facing right now are a great time to invest in our personal growth and wellbeing.
Yes, times are tough, and yes, uncertainty is here, but this is a great chance to become stronger and calmer human beings.
Our language, the words we use, play a massive role in our lives. Through the words we chose, we make or break our lives.
The good news, however, is that we can easily change our way of thinking and speaking.
One of these massive shifts is saying “I don’t” more often and avoiding “I can’t”.
By changing the words we use when talking to others and ourselves, we can literally transform our mindset and our lives.
Instead of saying “I can’t drink any alcohol tonight.” say “I don’t drink tonight because I am taking care of my body.”
Instead of saying “I can’t eat that piece of cake.” say “I don’t want to eat this because it harms my health.”.
Shift your mindset from restrictions to freedom.
Whenever we say “I can’t” we usually blame others or our environment (which is the most natural thing one can do).
By saying “I don’t”, however, we are taking control of our actions and being the masters of our lives instead of playing the victim.
Now, what’s this secret to transforming my life, you might ask.
Here’s the answer: Reduce complaints and accusations and start taking responsibility for all your actions.
Instead of saying “I can’t do that.” start saying “I don’t want to do that”.
Easy as that?
Yes, it’s easy as that.
Why most people struggle to implement this tiny shift?
Because we are so used to pleasing each other instead of being honest and real to ourselves.
But here’s the thing: You were not born to please others.
Did you know that you being alive is a miracle?
The odds of being born are about one in 400 trillion.
Can you imagine what that means?
We are all miracles, and yet, we are used to spending our lives finding excuses and satisfying others instead of living our wildest dreams — isn’t that crazy?
Let’s face it: “Can’t” is a terrible word, and we should entirely ban it from our vocabulary.
Attitude is everything
A considerable part of our lives depends on our attitude.
It doesn’t only affect our emotions, body language, facial expressions, and words but ultimately designs our entire lives.
A strong and positive attitude will help you elevate your life and cope with difficulties easily.
And here’s the thing: Your attitude defines your words, and your words define your attitude.
If you use strong, positive words, these will become your reality.
If you, however, chose to say “I can’t do that.” that’s the exact reality you will attract.
Bottom Line
With the right mindset, a positive attitude, a clear vision of what you want, and the right words (“I don’t” instead of “I can’t”), you can change your life.
Most people doubt themselves and their skills before anyone else does.
“I can’t hold that presentation.”
“I can’t lose weight.”
“I can’t find the right partner.”
However, all these statements are a lack of confidence and the result of fear.
If you honestly want to transform your life, you need to change the way you think and talk to yourself. You need to believe you can have it all and prove it to yourself every damn day.
Instead of feeling sorry for yourself, start empowering yourself.
Be your own cheerleader.
Know what you want.
Talk to yourself the way you want others to talk to you.
Want to grow? Grab our free Personal Growth Toolkit with 42 effective & actionable tactics, resources & tools to elevate your life.