Mind Framing to Make It Happen

Here’s the thing – numerous motivational expressions exist that work well with enticing one to keep at it. However, no words work as well as these three if you frame them correctly. When you get to the point when you say these three words, you know you have the commitment to accomplish your goal.  

Occasionally, I get questioned about how my life would be different if I had not made the major leagues. Now, I can think objectively about that and surmise that things would have turned out fine, and I would be happy. But back in the day, the thought of things turning out fine with not reaching my goal was incomprehensible. To me, there was no plan B – my heart and soul said that “I have to” make it – period. 

Sometimes, my family gets perturbed with me because of my running training. Christmas day, 10 degrees outside – it doesn’t matter. I know, and they know that missing one day of exercise is inconsequential, but the thing is, “I have to” because it’s in my heart and soul, and it is the means to being who I want to be.

When you get asked to go to a party or golfing with a friend, you answer with, “I would love to, but …”

The reason you cannot join the fun and are three inspiring words - “I have to…” In my current life, it’s, “I would love to join you, but I have to run.” Those three words say so much, and there is no ambiguity to them. The “have to” is definite, with no wiggle room. It is not maybe; it’s “There are no options – I must - done, over. 

Now, don’t get me wrong, the I-have-to sensation is not a negative like I have to go to the dentist type thing. On the contrary, it’s a positive - I have to do it because it is who I am, who I want to be, and part of a perfect day. Now it may seem like an anchor to feel like one has to do something, but in one’s mind it’s, “I get to.” As a runner, I get to run 15 miles today is exciting. As a coach, I get to teach baseball and softball for 5 hours today is exhilarating because it gives me a chance to make a difference in others’ lives. 

The message is simple: substitute the “I have to” to “I get to,” and suddenly, your day has a lighter feeling, and you are on the path to success.

On the flip side, and a story for another day, saying “You have to” are the least inspiring words to offer someone.