It’s amazing how often I hear someone say, “I can’t do that” when they really mean “I’m unwilling to do that.”
Sound familiar?
The potential list of “can’ts” is endless…
Do you tell yourself “I can’t do that” when it comes to something outside your comfort zone?
- I can’t raise my fees.
- I can’t leave my corporate job to start my own business.
- I can’t go back to school to pursue a different career.
- I can’t get out of debt.
- I can’t take a belly dancing class.
Tell it like it really is: Unwilling
Try this on for size: Next time you say you can’t do something, tell it like it is. Say: “I’m unwilling...”
Frame it honestly—that it’s an unwillingness to do something, rather than ability (which is what “can” is all about). In other words, “I can’t get out of debt” becomes “I am unwilling to get out of debt.”
Overly harsh? I don’t think so.
Have a willing mindset
Nine times out of ten, it really is our willingness—not our ability—that holds us back. It’s our entrenched ideas about what is possible. Or more accurately—it’s our entrenched mindset about all that is not possible.
Think about what willingness really means. One definition of willingness is being “prepared”, as in: I am prepared to get out of debt.
My challenge to you is to restate your “can’ts” more honestly to acknowledge your unwillingness. Notice your reaction. What new possibilities are available when you consider YOU are what’s holding you back?
