We often use the words “I can’t” when we really mean “I won’t.”
We are afraid of the vulnerability of doing something that leaves us open to failure or criticism. By pushing beyond what we feel comfortable with, it feels as if we can’t.
There are, of course, things we can’t do.
But when I tell myself “I can’t forgive” or “I can’t meditate” or “I can’t take on a project as large as that one,” what I’m really saying is: “Because I’m afraid, I won’t make the focused effort to do the difficult work of trying.”
By acknowledging that I’m really adopting the mindset of “I won’t,” I can slowly confront – and eventually embrace – the mindsets that are limiting me. Only then can I move into the headspace to acknowledge “I will push into the discomfort of…” and see where that step of courage leads me.
What are some areas in which you “can” but “won’t?”
~ Charles