“Can’t” is a dangerous word to use because it limits our creativity and development. When we say “I can’t do this,” we are closing off the possibility of finding a solution and achieving our goals. Instead of saying “I can’t,” we should try reframing our thoughts and saying “I will find a way.”
We used to assume that you needed advanced programming skills to create internet tools. In the late 1990s, a Stanford student had a vision for a breakthrough search engine, but he had only basic HTML skills. That forced him to code a bland search page with a simple box in the middle. And that’s how Google was born.
Theodore Geisel used to think that he needed complete artistic freedom to write a book. A publisher challenged him to write a book using only 50 words. The book, Green Eggs and Ham, became the best-selling book authored by Geisel, who’s better known as Dr. Seuss.
One reason “can’t” is so dangerous is that it limits our thinking. When we tell ourselves that we can’t do something, we are putting up a mental block that prevents us from considering all of the possible ways to achieve our goal. By contrast, when we tell ourselves “I will find a way,” we open ourselves up to the possibility of finding a solution.
Another reason “can’t” is dangerous is that it can hold us back from taking action. When we believe that we can’t do something, we are more likely to give up before we even try. On the other hand, when we believe that we will find a way, we are more likely to persevere and take the necessary steps to achieve our goals.
In addition to limiting our thinking and our actions, “can’t” can also have a negative impact on our confidence. When we tell ourselves that we can’t do something, we are essentially telling ourselves that we are not capable or competent. This can erode our self-confidence and make us feel discouraged.
So next time you find yourself saying “I can’t,” try reframing your thoughts and saying “I will find a way.” This simple shift in perspective can make a big difference in your ability to overcome challenges and achieve your goals.
