Ever feel like your brain needs its own vitamin aisle?
You know those moments when hitting snooze feels easier than opening your eyes and motivation seems to have taken a brief and unscheduled vacation?
Yep, me too.
If you’ve ever found yourself saying “I can’t” and wondering why it leaves an unpleasant aftertaste, you’re not alone. It’s like those two little words slam the door on possibility, leaving you trapped in a cycle of frustration and self-doubt.
I recently stumbled onto the latest Pinkcast with author Dan Pink—motivation master, language lover, and all-around smart human.
I was excited because he endorsed one of the practices I focus on in my keynote message and my book, Positively Altered: Finding Happiness at the Bottom of a Chemo Bag.
I like to talk about what I call “vocabulary vitamins.” Think of them as supplements, but instead of opening your mouth, you’re opening your mind to empowering phrases.
My point is simple: Tweaking your words can transform your habits and behaviors.
I know, I know—it sounds too good to be true, but it works. Research says so. Stick with me now, because language is sneaky powerful.
When you shift from a limiting statement like, as Dan offered, “I can’t eat donuts” to “I don’t eat donuts,” you’re not just making a choice; you’re reshaping your identity.
Plus, saying “I can’t” feels restrictive and temporary—like you’re constantly testing your willpower. “I don’t,” on the other hand, defines who you are. And you know me—I love anything that strengthens identity (and skips the sugar crash).
Let’s break out our verbal vinyasa mats and stretch these concepts into real-life magic. I have some vitamin-packed phrases of my own for you to try, and I threw in a couple of Dan’s for good measure.
- “I can and I will.” Pure confidence. It’s your personal declaration of strength and intent.
- “I choose not to . . .” A powerful shift from victimhood to decision-maker. You’re the boss.
- “I am . . .” The foundational mantra for affirming who you are and who you’re becoming.
- “I get to . . .” Dan’s favorite. This shifts your mindset from obligation to opportunity.
- “What could I . . . ?” A deliciously expansive phrase that opens doors rather than shuts them. Goodbye limitations, hello possibilities!
Think of these as your “terminology tune-up.” You’re adjusting your mental engine for peak performance.
So, what’s your prescription? Take these vocabulary vitamins daily. Speak them, think them, and watch your behavior follow suit.
Language isn’t just words—it’s energy. It’s a mindset. Let’s make sure you’re fueling up on the good stuff.
Choose one right now and own it next week. See if you can make it a habit.
Ready to upgrade your mental menu? Because trust me, the healthier your vocabulary, the healthier your life. And as your go-to doc with wellness on the brain, I promise you: These word vitamins are side-effect free and flavorfully empowering.
Cheers to a healthier mindset—one powerful phrase at a time!
Be positively altered,
Dr. Cindy M. Howard
P.S. Tune in for a mix of humor, vulnerability, and practical advice on navigating adversity and embracing life’s challenges with my guest Scot Heathman on Positively Altered!
