Buckley3

Linguistically speaking, using the word 'can't' in a sentence immediately creates an unspoken dependent clause that begins with the word 'unless.'

Try it. "I can't _____, unless ____."

Anything is possible. The only question is what are the constraints and what resources, conditions, etc. are required.

True, some situations are considerably more difficult than others. I can't play NBA basketball unless I become so skilled at the mechanics of the game that I overcome my 5'8" height and overcome my arthritic hips. How bad do I want to do that? Not really important to me. So I'll spare myself the effort.

Sobriety? Yes. I want that. So what are the constraints? What are the conditions? What support do I need?

"I can't be sober, unless I don't drink."
"I can't withstand peer pressure, unless I change who I'm hanging out with."
"I can't stand how I feel when I'm sober, unless I change habits and routines that reinforce better outcomes."

Not suggesting being naive, rather pointing out can't is usually a sign that it's time to shift perspectives and start exploring options.

Don't drink.

-B

Mizz

YES!
I love this post.

D122y

By any means! It has gotten better and better.

Thanks.

dustyfox

Excellent Buckley3!
Employing the power of linguistics to drive home the message!

DriGuy

Great post. We can't remove the word "can't" from the English language, but we would do well to remove it from much of our mental processing. "Can't" is a sign that it's time to start exploring options, rather than using it as an excuse to remain stuck in one place. "Can't finalizes any issue and ends forward motion.