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In a segment on the Today program, Aussie psychologist Amantha Imber recommends using the word “don’t” – whether it’s in conversation with others or self-talk – instead of "can’t" when it comes to discussing behaviour.
“If we say ‘I don't eat sugar’ rather than ‘I can't eat sugar’ we internalise this and that is how we truly act,” she said.
“Say you’re trying to eat less junk food for example, rather than saying you can’t have fries with your burger say you don’t have fries with your burger.”
She says that research backs up the hack, with studies showing that people who swap “can’t” for “don’t” are 50 per cent more likely to stick to behavioural change. She says that this is because the wording allows for choice over restriction.
Imber also suggests making changes to your habits in the morning rather than the evening, as the early hours are often when willpower is strongest. This might mean committing to a morning sweat sesh or stuffing your breakfast plate with extra vegetables.
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