Can’t is a lie

Can’t is, more often than not, an excuse. There are a multitude of reasons why we don’t simply say, “No” or “I don’t want to.” Fear is a substantial reason. Fear of
failing
succeeding
rejection
losing
raising the expectations
judgment
repeating past hurts.
Fear is paralyzing because it makes us vulnerable, what often we equate with weak.

We admire the fearless. The people who despite failing, pain, judgment just keep going towards their dreams. But that’s them, not us. We could never, could we?

“Can’t” is a lie. “I am scared” is not.

Courage and faith are needed to take that next step. Courage to listen to the longing of your soul. Courage to explore the lessons in past experiences, show up in the present and try to make the best choice in the moment. Courage to show up fully. Courage to say, “I’m scared and I have no idea what will happen, but I am here now and willing to discover what awaits.”

Faith to trust that maybe things won’t turn out the way you hope, but will always turn out brilliantly if you stay true to your souls longing. Faith that you know more and have more ability and strength than you could imagine. Faith that things just work out in serendipitous ways. Faith that you will be supported in sometimes magical and miraculous ways. Faith that every little thing’s gonna be alight.

Be willing to practice courageous honesty when you hear yourself think or say, “I can’t.” Reframe immediately. At first it will be challenging, but eventually it becomes incredibly empowering. You’ll find you trust yourself to take more risks and get out of the ruts that keep you stuck. Change the narrative and you change your life.

Photo credit: CJS*64 “Man with a camera” via VisualHunt / CC BY-ND