I WILL do the thing today.

One word in the English language inspires so much guilt for me (and destroys personal growth). There is so much self-loathing and judgment in the phrase “I should…” that it behaves like a prison. Saying to myself, “I should write today,” feels defeatist. It makes me dread opening Word.

“Should” removes accountability. It sets a negative mood. Think about it, when someone tells you something should work, doesn’t it create that tiny bit of doubt that it won’t? When someone says I should do something, I want to do it even less.

What I Do Instead

Replace should with anything else. “I will write today.” It’s punchy and motivational. Saying “I will” replaces the wish to do something with action. I’m the type of person who needs that kind of assertive statement to get going. Your mileage may vary.

If “I will” is too aggressive, try instead “I may,” “I could,” or even better, “I choose to…” These phrases, to me, are empowering as hell. It takes the power away from mopey, defeatist Tal and puts motivated Tal back in the driver’s seat.

Let’s break out of the prison “should” creates for us. To hell with the guilt, the shame, and the pessimism. We’re in charge here, damn it.

Thanks for reading!

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