Introduction: What the what now?
If you’re anything like, well, most of us, we have the reflex of “I can’t…” which rolls off our tongues quicker than that of a whinging toddler. It’s often a phrase which we have used so often we do not even notice it is more of a habit than a statement. The problem with it is that it is an ultimate roadblock. We’ve slammed on the brakes and defied anyone to tell us any different, and that includes other parts of ourselves who want different outcomes.
I loved learning the phrase "I am learning to..." as a replacement. It is a powerful tool for personal growth, self-improvement, and just wedging open the possibility that what you once thought does not have to be the ultimate truth. It embodies the spirit of a growth mindset and reflects our ongoing journey towards self-awareness, development, and the possibility that we are capable of change. I wanted to write a bit about how the phrase "I am learning to..." can transform your mindset, foster resilience, and promote a sense of empowerment.
The Transformative Power of "I Am Learning To..."
1. Fosters a Growth Mindset
The phrase "I am learning to..." encourages a growth mindset by focusing on the process of learning and improvement rather than just the outcome. This mindset allows you to embrace challenges, persevere through setbacks, and view failures as opportunities for growth and learning.
2. Promotes Self-Compassion
Saying "I am learning to..." acknowledges that you are a work in progress, and it's okay not to be perfect. This mindset cultivates self-compassion and encourages you to be kind to yourself as you navigate the learning process. Recognising that growth takes time and effort can help alleviate self-judgment and enhance self-acceptance.
3. Encourages Lifelong Learning
Embracing the idea that "I am learning to..." cultivates a lifelong learning mentality, fostering curiosity and the desire to continually develop new skills and knowledge. This approach opens up opportunities for personal and professional growth, making life more fulfilling and engaging. Rather than just telling yourself you can’t.
4. Builds Resilience
When you adopt the mindset of "I am learning to...", you build resilience by focusing on your capacity to grow and adapt. This perspective helps you bounce back from setbacks and remain optimistic about your ability to overcome challenges and develop new skills.
5. Enhances Empowerment
The phrase "I am learning to..." promotes a sense of empowerment, as it acknowledges your active role in your personal development. By taking ownership of your learning journey, you cultivate self-confidence and a belief in your ability to achieve your goals.
How to Incorporate "I Am Learning To..." in Your Life
1. Reframe Your Self-Talk
Think about places you can replace your “I can’t…”s or your “I don’t know how to…”s and negative self-talk with the empowering phrase "I am learning to...". This shift in language can help change your perspective and cultivate a more positive, growth-oriented mindset.
2. Set Realistic Goals
When setting goals, if you use the language of "I am learning to..." it reminds your that personal growth is a continuous journey. And that there is potential. And change is possible. Break your goals down into smaller, achievable steps, and celebrate your progress along the way (otherwise the graft does not seem worth it)
3. Practice Mindfulness and Self-Reflection
Regularly take time for self-reflection and mindfulness practices, such as journaling, chanting,looking at nature or meditation. Use these moments to explore your thoughts and emotions and remind yourself of your commitment to learning and growth.
4. Surround Yourself with Supportive People
Notice the supportive folk, the ones who lift you and ground you, who inspire and hold space for you, the ones who are going to encourage you when you are trying to learn something new or create a habit change, individuals who share your commitment to growth and learning. Engage in open conversations about your goals and challenges, and seek encouragement from others on their own learning journeys.
It all sounds really basic but so is telling yourself you are not good enough. And that is something most of us have been doing for most of our lives. If we want different outcomes, we are going to need to be willing to try something different. Give it a go, and let me know how you get on.
