You can if you do

Even though Alex and I start getting ready for bed at the same time, she almost always beats me there, often by 15 minutes or more.

The rule is: if her eye mask is on when I get in bed, it's too late for talking, and she's in sleep mode.

Last night, I nearly made the cut off.

I came in and the mask was on top of her head! I was pleased, because I wanted to talk a little before going to sleep. 

But one quick trip to the bathroom meant that upon my actual arrival into bed, the mask was in place.

Because I knew she'd just pulled it down, I allowed myself to bemoan this development aloud (technically in violation of our agreement), saying: now I can't talk to you!

Alex's sleepy voice ventured a response.

She said: you can if you do.

She meant, you can still talk to me even though the mask is on. 

But I laid in bed thinking about how profound this statement is overall, as an approach to life. 

You can if you do. 

How often have I chosen not to do something, said that I couldn't do it, when really I could have?

How often have I complained that I can't do something when actually it's technically possible, but for some reason, I'm not willing to pursue it?

Maybe the timing isn't as good as it could be.

Maybe the action needed will be hard or uncomfortable.

Maybe the "I can't" is code for "I don't know how."

Alex has created an incredible life for herself, and I think a lot of it comes down to her willingness to do.

If there's something she wants, she goes after it. She can because she does.

I admire this about her. While I've also done a lot of doing, it's not always my first stop. 

I think about things a lot. I weigh plans and options. And yes, I bemoan. 

There is a beauty and a simplicity in being able to shift into the mode of doing, even when it's hard, even when the timing's not perfect, even when you're not sure if you have what it takes to be successful.

You can if you do.

Doing will either show you that you can or show you what's still needed in order for you to build the ability. 

What do you wish you could do?

What have you been dreaming of or complaining about?

What have you been waiting to pursue?

And how can you move yourself closer to your desired outcome by doing something?

Don't worry - you don't have to do it alone!

One on one coaching is one way to close the gap between dreaming and doing. 

As a coach, I know how to help you transform a goal into manageable steps, navigate the inevitable obstacles that come up when you start taking action, and build your confidence along the way. 

And I have a few spaces open for new clients right now.

And remember - whatever you want for your life, community, and the world - you can if you do!

XO,