I can’t. Two simple words that are said all the time unconsciously.

• I can’t afford that.
• I can’t do that.
• I can’t _____.

When you say “I can’t” what you are doing is removing choice from your life and declaring to the Universe at large that you don’t want opportunity to come your way.

Research has also proven that we become what we think.

If you are constantly thinking that you can’t do ___ or have ___ or be ___, you are reinforcing this and creating it in your life.

For example, when I was in my early 20’s and just starting out on my own, I had my first apartment in the city, a good job and a social life that was well balanced. But, I found myself saying, “I can’t afford that,” every time someone invited me out or I wanted to buy something for the apartment.

Subconsciously I felt that my small, although steady, income was limited and I had to guard it closely.

Each time I said, “I can’t” the Universe heard, “Nope, don’t send Laura opportunity.” The Universe honors what we say, with complete neutrality.

So, I had several years of believing that I didn’t have enough financial resources. It took me a long time to realize that I had created a negative mantra that I repeated over and over! Only when I said, “Thanks, maybe next time,” instead of “I can’t,” did my financial situation stabilize, both financially and emotionally.

When I shifted my perspective about money to view it as flowing through my life instead of hoarding it in a lump sum, I gave myself permission to spend it on fun things that enriched my life as well as the bills and it stopped being a negative bone of contention.You are always in control of the choices you make in your life.

Think about when you say, “I can’t.” While it may be true that outside circumstances prevent you in that moment from accomplishing whatever it is you are saying no to, there is a way to decline in the moment while still keeping the door open for, “I can” to flow in your life the next time.

Instead of saying, “I can’t,” try saying instead:

• I would love to buy that and someday I will be able to.
• I would love to attend and next time I may be able to.
• I would like to _____ and there will be a time when I can.
• I choose not to _____ because _____.

When you use, “I can” instead of “I can’t” you are telling the Universe to keep the door of potential open for you! You are reinforcing positive energy thoughts that flow through your life, helping to create a life full of potential, not limitation.

What other positive mantras can you think of that emphasize, “I can”? Please share them in the comments here.