I CAN VS I CAN'T
Have you noticed how often you say the phrase, ‘I can’t’? Either to yourself or others.
As soon as the words ‘I can’t’ are uttered, it’s all people focus on. It doesn’t matter if you continue to tell them how you might be able to manage their request; the damage has already been done.
It also works against you:
As soon as you think the words ‘I can’t’ your brain believes you, making it far harder for you to find ways around the problem. It stimulates your brain’s un-creative, threat side.
The key is to focus your time and energy on what you can achieve rather than what you can’t. Louise will explain how.
TRY THIS
Identify something you are currently telling yourself that you can't do.
Now switch your thinking towards what you could do. It doesn’t have to be perfect or well thought out. It’s about where you are placing your mental and emotional energy.
The next time you ask someone to do something for you and they respond with “I can’t do that”, try asking them what they CAN do instead! And see what they say.
Start conversations with a focus on what you could do.
the benefits
Focusing on what you can do rather than what you can't helps you and others:
- Be pro-active
- Direct your mental and emotional energy toward positive action
- Work better, live better and feel better with healthier relationships
TODAY'S ACTION
Focus on what can be done. If you can’t do something or someone tells you they can’t do something, flip it and ask ‘what can be done.’