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Eliminate This "C-Word" From Your Vocabulary and Help Change Your Attitude.

What’s the C-word? The C-word is CAN’T, as in “I can’t” (do something). Can’t is an absolute word, meaning “No way, impossible, not in a million years.” Think of how many times you’ve used the C-Word. Was the action really impossible to do? As a TKD student, you should be able to find a way to translate a thought of “I can’t” into a positive way of looking at the problem. Instead of using the C-Word, replace it with a different way of thinking. Chances are the problem is not impossible, just very difficult. It’s OK to admit that something is very difficult. However, that makes it much more rewarding when the problem is finally solved.

Think of what you need to solve the problem. You need to recognize that you may need help, you may need practice, or you may need time.

Example: You catch yourself thinking “I can’t do a jump back kick.” Change that thought to “I can do a jump back kick. I need practice to make it better. I will continue to improve with my practice.” Or “I need help to improve my jump back kick. I will ask the instructor or an advanced belt for help.” The I will thought relates to our school motto Pil Sung (must win, certain victory, I will). Use your “will”, your determination, to make it happen. It may take a long time, even years, but you CAN do it!

As an experiment, listen throughout the day to how many other people use the C-word. You may even find yourself thinking it from time to time.Turn the thought around into a positive thought - how CAN this thing be done? From now on, whenever you hear the C-word, a little alarm bell should go off in your head. Catch the thought, and turn it around.Then give yourself ten mental (or physical!) push-ups for using the C-word, and resolve not to use it anymore. Getting rid of the C-word is a major step in developing a more positive attitude.

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