We encourage you to share these tips with your colleagues and students.
Saying “I Can” Gives You the Power of Choice
When you are trying to reach your goals, the words “I can’t” can really get in the way. Choosing to overcome the negative statement “I can’t” and replace it with “I can” will empower you to succeed. Here’s how:
- Don’t say why you can’t do something; instead, explain how you can do that something if you choose.
When you say that you can’t complete an objective, you are declaring that it is outside of your ability, the statement leaves you without any choice. You can’t do it- case closed! Take a moment before making such a debilitating statement. Do not pass up the opportunity to empower yourself by brainstorming ways that you could choose to do that “something”. Explain how you can accomplish your goal rather than focusing on reasons why you can’t and decide on your course of action.
For example, instead of saying “I can’t exercise today because I don’t have enough time”, say “I can exercise today if I work-out during my lunch hour or if I get up an hour earlier”. Whatever it is, think of ways and express how you can accomplish that task.
You may still decide not to exercise and that’s okay― your sleep and lunch hour might just be your bigger priorities; the important thing is you have affirmed the ability to choose whether or not you do that activity. Remember, just because you can do something doesn’t mean you have to do it, but when you say “I can’t” you take away your choice. Don’t take away your choice!