Is it “I Can’t” or “I Won’t”???

The other day I was really thinking about the difference between the words can’t and won’t. It is really interesting that we often interchange them given how different their implicit meanings really are.

Won’t is something we can do, but are not willing to do. For me, an example would be that I could get up a half hour earlier each day if I wanted to, since doing so is within my capabilities. Can’t is simply something we literally can’t do. For example, I cannot perform brain surgery. It is truly something I canNOT do (nor would you want me to!)…

A lot of us say we can’t do something. But, in actuality, it is something that we won’t do. I would note that the words we use are important – they send reinforcing messages to our brain. And, then our brain starts to believe the words, which become “reality.”

Unfortunately, as the can’t/won’t confusion is played out again and again, something that you might have been prepared to do with a bit of effort might change into a “thing” you never address. In contrast, I used to be painfully shy and could not face talking in front of even a small group of people. But, I realized this was a “won’t” issue for me. As a result, I have made a conscious effort to become more comfortable around people and public speaking has been banished from the “canNOT” category in my brain!!!

Take a few minutes to see how you use can’t/won’t for some of the bigger hurdles you are facing in your life. Be honest and see if you are using the words in the correct context.

Let me know what you observe. I’m curious…

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