‘Can’t is a lazy fella.’
That’s what my Grandma would say when I was whining. She was right.
Grandmas frequently are.
The challenge with a phrase like that is that it's easy to say, but not so easy to turn around.
It takes a second to say ‘can't’ and that’s it, you’re done.
It also takes a second to say ‘can’ but then you're committed to the energy and time required to turn can into done.
But what if you really can’t, Michael?
Those of us who like to study language, often replace can't for unable to; especially when you genuinely are unable to do something.
But there's a thin line between being unable to and just not wanting to.
Or worse, thinking you’re not capable when you really are.
Human endeavour is incredible. The satisfaction of doing something that you initially thought you couldn't do, sticking with it and then achieving it, truly is one of the most amazing feelings.
How do you go from can’t to can?
Three Ideas:
1. Change your language: See if you can replace can’t with 'I'm up for it', 'I’ll have a crack', 'I will' or something more positive that fits with you.
2. Do something: Anything! Even if it's the tiniest progression, it means you’ve started. The trajectory is in the right direction.
Can't = Stagnant.
3. Commit: The second you make a commitment (and make it public) you're much more likely to do it.
Last week, 120 people signed up for my next Write That Book Masterclass. I asked them to post on their social media profiles
that they are now writing a book.
Because of this, friends, family and colleagues and a whole bunch of people they didn't know are encouraging and supporting them.
What are your ideas to get past can’t? Please share them here.
And speaking of books, take a look at this: The Write That Bookshop is now open, showcasing the incredible talent of previous members of Write That Book who have gone on to publish them.
