When you focus on what CAN you do, it opens you up to possibilities and the power you have. You’re then able to figure out what you’re capable of, what resources you have available, and the opportunities that are around you. With that sense of possibility, you can take action, and make positive changes in your life. On the other side with what CAN’T you do, it’s a limiting mindset; instead of the possibilities you’re looking at obstacles and restrictions. This can lead to feelings of helplessness and stagnation because you believe you’re unable to overcome the difficulties or achieve your goals.
You become a problems solver when you come from the I CAN viewpoint. You approach challenges with a proactive attitude looking for solutions and alternatives. You’re more likely to persevere when faced with hardships because you’re being creative and resilient. Conversely, I CAN’T has a tendency to magnify problems, making them seem impossible. In turn this can lead to a cycle of negativity and no action as you become overwhelmed by your perceived limitations. (“Fight for your limitations, you’ll get them.”)
If you want to continue to grow and develop stick with I CAN. With this growth mindset you’re open, you know your abilities, which you can adapt and grow through effort and learning. You’ll have continuous improvement and learn from failures, you either win or you learn. In contrast, I CAN’T is associated with a fixed mindset, you believe your abilities are what they are and can’t be changed. This can stop any form of personal growth or development and hinder your progress.
Give yourself power to do things or limit yourself?
Overcome challenges or let them overcome you?
Find solutions or make situations “worse?”
Learn, grow, and adapt or stay put?
You have the choice.