How Not Can't

Why You Should Change How You Think and Talk

Embrace change and improvement

Welcome to The Way of the Stoic. A free Sunday newsletter where I write about subjects that will benefit you and me.

Summary of Today’s Newsletter:

• Why how you speak is important

• How to change your vocabulary

• How your mindset will change and improve

Are you interested in sponsoring my newsletter and getting your project in front of thousands of self-improvement enthusiasts? Reach out to [email protected] 

Why You Should Change How You Think and Talk

I recently read Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki and there was a passage in the book that resonated strongly with me. Robert wanted to buy something beneficial and there were two different responses.

Poor Dad said ‘We can’t afford it’

Rich Dad said ‘How can we afford it?’

Think about the responses deeply.

Poor Dad is an intelligent man with an excellent education but his mindset does not allow for a growth mindset. ‘Can’t’ is the wrong word in this situation. It places a mental roadblock between the problem and the solution. We can’t afford this, we can’t do that etc etc.

Rich Dad has made a minor change to his response, but the outcome potential is huge. ‘How’ is opening a path to a solution and improvement.

I have a task for you. Next time your automatic response to a question or situation is ‘can’t’ take a moment to reflect. Could I look at this from a different perspective? Even better journal the problem and reflect. Respond with HOW can I do something to improve, allow, or resolve. 

Our responses become habitual therefore negative and emotional responses become second nature.

Positive self-talk. Talk to yourself with kindness and positivity. ‘I have a busy day ahead and I’m looking forward to a good day of getting to do stuff. How will I schedule my day?’

Becoming aware of how you talk to yourself and others is a huge part of self-awareness. We can have a pattern of negativity that we are not aware of until we pause and consciously study and change.

‘I can’t afford it’ to ‘How can I afford it?’ so now we have an open question. You’ll begin to look at ways to expand your income. If you have just one income then that’s something you should change. Multiple incomes are optimal. Think or say to yourself—What is open to me or what can I discover as a way to afford something I consider essential? Remain optimistic. As you’re reading this newsletter you have a growth mindset and should capitalize on your openness to learning.

Changing your vocabulary initially will be difficult as you’re exercising your brain and reflexes. As with everything, repetition and practice is your friend. New muscles in your brain will be worked and eventually a natural part of your daily internal and external dialogue.

Will you give this a go? Send me an email with your results or reply to my newsletter post on my X account Wise1Philosophy

If you find this content useful please check out my e-Book Holistic Growth pinned to my X account.

Have a great Sunday!

Tony