How is it possible that two simple words can make a world of difference in someone’s life?

A couple of weeks ago, the small size of the tongue and its substantial power were the object of the sermon at the church I went to. The Scripture reading from James 3:5 — “5 So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things” made me realize how much our words shape our world. Of all the limiting words the tongue boasts, “I can’t” is perhaps the worst of all. In the lines that follow, I will share with you how you can get rid of these two monsters.

“Where there is a will, there is a way.”

Many believe failing makes us failures. Understanding that we learn more from failures than successes will free us from those limiting beliefs. If you look around you, wherever you are reading this, there is light. I doubt they would be there if Edison had believed he was a failure. You need to know that you possess the power to dissociate, learn, and grow from your failures. Ever wonder why many religions use mantras? By using a word repeatedly, we can influence our thought patterns, so watch what you say! If you ever feel stuck, ask yourself the following question:

What is stopping me? What am I afraid of?

Chances are, you have been holding yourself back because of failures. Decide that today will be the last day that will cause your tomorrow to suffer because of apparent failures.

Saying “I can’t” leads to imposter syndrome that causes us to waste valuable mental energies visualizing what we dread. I met people who know all the reasons an endeavor will fail. I sure have met my past self!

Who wouldn’t want to have a time machine to travel in the future and make sure we get exactly what we want? Alas! Until such time arrives, we can only use the resources we have now and make the best of them. Following are some questions that you can ask yourself to eliminate your negative mental images:

  • What are the possible consequences?
  • What is the worst thing that can happen?
  • Imagine it was possible. What would it be like?

A little time to think will only make you realize things aren’t as bad as you think.

But I really can’t. What should I say?

“I can’t yet.”

Being unable to do something exists in relation to time. You would agree with me that being unable to do something today doesn’t mean being unable to do it tomorrow. Saying “I can’t yet” automatically puts you at cause instead of at effect. In fact, logically and linguistically, when we say “can’t” we are unconsciously showing our ability to not do something. It’s easy to say we can’t do something. It takes no effort to laze. So, instead of saying “I can’t” say “I can’t yet.” Become the rider, not the horse, take control! Assume full responsibilities for taking yourself from your current state to your most desired one. Some empowering questions you need to ask yourself are the following;

  • What is it going to require for me to do that?
  • What resources do I need to gain?

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Instead of a formal conclusion, I am urging you to say “I can’t yet,” for the next thirty days. A change of perspective and a change of attitude expressed by what you say is usually all you need.