I love my dog. Every morning at 8:30am, she dances around the kitchen with her tail wagging and her leash in her mouth letting me know it’s time for our walk. It’s something that is a part of our everyday, like brushing my teeth and getting dressed. A routine that is unbreakable.
Our morning walks are between 2-5 miles, depending on the weather and it’s an important time for us. We spend time together working on training, we clear the crazy out of our minds (and she’s crazy if she doesn’t get rid of her energy) and, for me, it’s time to get my creative and professional juices flowing. I’m pretty sure the dog has no thoughts on our walk other than “I got what I want and this is great.” Either way, we each get something out of it.
My dog doesn’t ever accept the words “we can’t” go on the walk today. In fact, if for some reason, we can’t go first thing in the morning, she harasses me all day until it happens. Rain, sleet, snow, 100-degree weather – it doesn’t matter, we walk. As I was shivering slightly in the cold morning air today I was thinking about the words “I can’t” and how it affects people. I could have very easily said “we can’t walk today, it’s too cold.” Instead, we bundled up and headed outside. For both the dog and I, there is no “can’t” when it comes to waking. And so, I was inspired to write this blog post about the word “CAN’T” and how it might affects our lives.
I work with clients every day who are stuck saying “I can’t.” They are stuck in this mode of self- blame and self-destruction that they are unwilling to break through on their own. If you’re stuck in “I can’t” mode, maybe it’s time to change your language.
First, you need to eliminate the word “can’t.” Consciously get rid of it, toss it in the trash and replace it with “I don’t.” It’s a scientific fact that people who say things like “I don’t skip my morning walk with my dog” tend to follow through on their commitments more than people who say things like “I can’t skip my morning walk with my dog.”
“I can’t” limits you in so many ways. It even feels negative to say it out loud.
Now try saying “I want to go for a walk today.”
Now try saying “I choose to go for a walk today.”
Feels better, doesn’t it? In all cases (choose, vs. don’t vs. want and can’t) you are telling your brain that you are in charge today.
You probably know somebody who looks like a disciplined rock star compared to you. It’s like they can create change in their lives magically or naturally better than everybody else. Maybe their self- discipline fell from the sky or was a super hero gift from the universe. Sometime we think “oh look at them, I couldn’t count on myself to be like them.” Here’s the truth: they are simply more effective because of their thoughts, behaviors and actions.
Simply establishing a habit – like walking the dog every day- one small thing- is all you need to start heading in the right direction. It’s all about the right words and actions.
How many times have you wanted to change? To be different? How many times have you read about the changes you want to make? If I got the body that came from simply wishing it into existence, I’d be so, so HOT right now.
Change doesn’t come from wanting, waiting, learning or manifestation. Change comes from action. Like the dog, looking cute with her leash in tow. I’m pretty sure all she thinks is “I am choosing to go on a walk right now” and she takes the necessary actions every day to make sure it happens.
I’m not suggesting you have to run out and buy a black boxer that wiggles around your kitchen with a leash in her mouth every morning, I’m only suggesting that you start changing your words and thoughts – they will help you start moving in the right direction.
Need help getting started? Set up a call with me RIGHT NOW! It’s free!
Live your best life and be well my friends.XO
Picture of post-walk nap. No more “crazy” lol
