Never underestimate the power of words. They have the power to move us, they have the power to inspire us and some would say that words can even shape our destiny. Words also spell out our defeat before we even get started. Use them with extreme caution because even if you only say them yourself, you may actually be listening.
5 Negative Words to Strike From Your Vocabulary
“I Can’t” — Don’t give your power over to a word. “I can’t” tells the world that you are accepting defeat, that you see yourself as a powerless observer. I can’t is the motivational equivalent of a whiny 4-year-old’s temper tantrum.
Correction: you won’t, or you don’t want to, but never you can’t. You can, you WILL because you have the power of choice. Yes, you may encounter obstacles. Yes, you may experience setbacks, even defeats, but you CAN always pick yourself up and try again.
“I’m Just” — Never downplay what you offer to the world. “I’m just” is an excuse word because what follows is usually all the reasons why you think you are under qualified for the success you desire.
Correction: I AM! Own your fabulousness, your skills, your value, your worth. There’s no just about it. You are the sum of all your amazing experiences, insights, skills, values and incredible talent. Don’t discount that. EVER.
“If Only” — Stop wishing and start doing. “If only” means you are stuck in wish mode, hoping that everything works out in your favor. Remember, goals are just wishes with a concrete action plan behind them.
Correction: Ready or not! Tell the world that you are moving ahead whether or not they are ready for you. It doesn’t matter if they are because you have your step-by-step plan on how to get there, including how to deal with all the potential obstacles.
“As Soon As” — Don’t wait for the perfect time or circumstances. “As soon as” promises potential without the commitment. “As soon as something else (that is outside my control) happens, then I will…” Funny how it lets you off the hook if that something never happens.
Correction: NOW is the time! Don’t wait for opportunity to knock — go out and make it happen! As with many things in life, there is never a perfect time, a perfect scenario to do something. You just have to do it!
“BUT…” — Never stamp your hopes and dreams with a BUT at the end that negates everything you just said. “I want to <INSERT BIG AUDACIOUS GOAL HERE>, but…(I won’t let myself because I’m afraid).
Correction: Why not? “Why not you? Why not now? Why the heck not?” As a friend once said to the question, “But won’t that mean we’ll be skiing in (to the backcountry campsite) in the dark?” That will be fun too!