The word "can't"

If there is a word that we should remove from our vocabulary in order for us to succeed, it is the word “Can’t.” This word has become very powerful that it has been shattering dreams and poisoning ideas since it came into being. It has been hindering people from reaching their dreams and aspirations. It has been an easy excuse for the indolent and half-hearted people so as not to work harder and aim for greater heights.

Many brilliant ideas have been killed because of this awful word and countless people have been denied of their successes because they unfortunately used or heard this word.

“I can’t!” These are just two words and yet the debilitating effect on us is so powerful that it can stop us right on track. If we believe in these words, then we’re immobilized, unable to continue even if success is just within reach. What we do is we focus on our limitations and shortcomings or worse we create an excuse for not doing our best or exerting more effort.

Obviously, it is counterproductive to have the words “can’t” or “I can’t” on our vocabulary. If we have faith in ourselves and our God-given talents then nothing should stop us from reaching our dreams.

If you feel like saying “I can’t,” why not utter these words from Philippians 4:13 instead: “I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me.” And believe in those words.

Here is an inspiring poem by a great poet about the word "can't" which he described as the worst word that's written or spoken:


Can't
Edgar Guest - 1916 - A Heap o' Livin'

Can't is the worst word that's written or spoken;
Doing more harm here than slander and lies;
On it is many a strong spirit broken,
And with it many a good purpose dies.
It springs from the lips of the thoughtless each morning
And robs us of courage we need through the day;
It rings in our ears like a timely sent warning
And laughs when we falter and fall by the way.

Can't is the father of feeble endeavor,
The parent of terror and halfhearted work;
It weakens the efforts of artisans clever,
And makes of the toiler an indolent shirk.
It poisons the soul of the man with a vision,
It stifles in infancy many a plan;
It greets honest toiling with open derision
And mocks at the hopes and the dreams of a man.

Can't is a word none should speak without blushing;
To utter it should be a symbol of shame;
Ambition and courage it daily is crushing;
It blights a man's purpose and shortens his aim.
Despise it with all of your hatred of error;
Refuse it the lodgement it seeks in your brain;
Arm against it as a creature of terror,
And all that you dream of you someday shall gain.

Can't is the word that is foe to ambition
An enemy ambushed to shatter your will;
Its prey is forever the man with a mission
And bows but to courage and patience and skill.
Hate it, with hatred that's deep and undying,
For once it is welcomed 'twill break any man;
Whatever the goal you are seeking, keep trying
And answer this demon by saying: "I can."