Embracing the Not Yet

What To Do When The Words "I CAN" Feel Empty, False or Fake

One of my favorite quotes of all time is Henry Ford's "Either you think you can or you think you can't, either way you are right." It carries a great message about the importance of our underlying thoughts and belief systems. Our mindset and perspective is powerful and It is crucial to believe in yourself and think that you can. 

But what happens when you can't say the words "I can" with conviction because they don't fully resonate and honor your true feelings?   

Sometimes in life it can feel really tough to overcome a particular challenge. Especially when you feel overwhelmed and don't really know how to take the first step. In these instances, the words "I can" seem false, empty, and fake.  

They can even make you feel like you lack willpower or self-discipline. I think this is particularly true when it comes to struggles around food and weight.   

What then?!    

Whenever you start to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or just down right defeated over a particular obstacle or challenge, attach the word "YET" to the end of any sentence in relation to that struggle.   

Here's what I mean: 

"I am not where I want to be with my weight YET."

"I am not exercising on a regular basis YET." 

"I have not overcome my struggle with food YET." 

This simple but powerful 3 letter word allows you to acknowledge where you are and how you currently feel BUT also helps you shift your mindset to see that this is not a permanent state. It is, in fact, only temporary and by simply acknowledging where you are and how you feel, you are on the path to make a change. 

 And it works for just about anything.

"I don't have the _________ (fill in the blank with whatever resonates for you...balance, financial freedom, relationship, etc.) that I desire YET." 

Carol Dweck introduced the power of this word in her very popular TedTalk "Power of Yet" and I have found myself using it a lot lately as I try to juggle launching a business, working another part-time job, and being a stay at home mom. Oh and trying to make healthy meals and exercise a priority. ;) 

Here are some of the ways that I am currently using this strategy to combat any feelings of overwhelm:

"I haven't established a complete work, life, and home balance YET." 

"I am not writing on a consistent basis YET." 

"I have not created my eCourse YET." 

It's a little word that can make a big difference. Try it and see if it makes a difference for you.  

Have a wonderful day and remember: 

"Nothing is impossible. The word itself says "I'm possible."

- Audrey Hepburn