Addiction Thinking Error#18 “I’cant”

Friedrich Heinrich Preuss, Bth(Psych), Hons(Psych)

Introduction

Addiction is a complex problem that affects millions of people

around the world. It can be caused by various factors, including
genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Addiction
thinking errors are patterns of thought that lead individuals to
believe that certain behaviors are acceptable or justifiable, even
when they are harmful. One of the most common thinking
errors associated with addiction is the "I can't" mentality.

Chapter 1: Understanding the "I Can't" Mentality The "I can't"

mentality is a common thinking error that is associated with
addiction. It involves using the phrase "I can't" when an
individual means "I won't." In other words, it is a statement of
refusal rather than inability. Individuals with this mentality often
use it as a way to escape responsibility for their actions or
behaviors. They believe that by saying "I can't," they are
absolving themselves of any responsibility for the situation.
The "I can't" mentality can be deeply ingrained in an individual's
way of thinking, especially if they have been struggling with
addiction for a long time. It can manifest in various ways, such
as avoiding responsibilities, making excuses, or refusing to seek
help.

The problem with the "I can't" mentality is that it limits an

individual's ability to take responsibility for their actions and
make positive changes in their life. It creates a sense of
helplessness and resignation that can be a barrier to recovery.
 Individuals with this mentality often believe that they are
unable to change their behaviors or that they are destined to
continue their addictive behaviors. This can lead to a sense of
defeat and hopelessness that can further perpetuate the
addiction.

It is important to understand that the "I can't" mentality is a

thinking error, and it can be corrected with the right mindset
and approach. By recognizing that it is a statement of refusal,
rather than inability, individuals can begin to take responsibility
for their actions and make positive changes in their lives.

Chapter 2: The Effects of the "I Can't" Mentality The "I can't"
mentality can have a significant impact on an individual's life. It
can lead to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, which
can be a barrier to recovery. Individuals with this mentality
often believe that they are unable to change their behaviors or
that they are destined to continue their addictive behaviors.
This can lead to a sense of resignation and defeat, which can
further perpetuate the addiction.
The effects of the "I can't" mentality can be far-reaching and
can affect an individual's mental, emotional, and physical
health. Here are some of the ways that the "I can't" mentality
can impact an individual's life:

1. Limited thinking - The "I can't" mentality can limit an

individual's thinking and prevent them from considering
alternative solutions to their problems. It can prevent them
from seeing the bigger picture and finding ways to overcome
their addiction.
2. Negative self-talk - Individuals with the "I can't" mentality often
engage in negative self-talk, which can lead to low self-esteem
 and feelings of worthlessness. This can further perpetuate the
addiction and make it harder for them to seek help.
3. Lack of motivation - The "I can't" mentality can also lead to a
lack of motivation and a sense of resignation. Individuals may
believe that they are unable to change their behaviors, so they
don't see the point in trying.
4. Self-sabotage - The "I can't" mentality can also lead to self-
sabotage. Individuals may engage in behaviors that they know
are harmful to themselves, such as continuing to use drugs or
alcohol, because they believe that they are unable to change
their behaviors.
5. Resistance to change - Individuals with the "I can't" mentality
may resist change and be reluctant to try new things. They may
believe that they are unable to succeed or that they will fail, so
they don't see the point in trying.

It is important to recognize the negative effects of the "I can't"

mentality and take steps to overcome it. By doing so,
individuals can open themselves up to new possibilities and
opportunities for growth and change.

Chapter 3: Correcting the "I Can't" Mentality The first step in

correcting the "I can't" mentality is to recognize that it is a
statement of refusal, rather than inability. Individuals must
accept that they have a choice in their behaviors and that they
are responsible for their actions. They must remind themselves
of their willingness to go out of their way to get things they
want and apply this willingness to required tasks.
Here are some strategies that can help correct the "I can't"
mentality:
1. Recognize the language - Individuals must pay attention to the
language they use when talking about their addiction or
behaviors. They must avoid using phrases like "I can't" and
replace them with "I won't" or "I choose not to."
2. Reframe negative self-talk - Instead of engaging in negative
self-talk, individuals must reframe their thoughts in a more
positive way. For example, instead of saying "I can't do this,"
they can say "I may find this difficult, but I am willing to try."
3. Embrace the power of choice - Individuals must recognize that
they have the power of choice in their lives. They must
understand that they can choose to make positive changes in
their behaviors and that they are not destined to continue their
addictive behaviors.
4. Take small steps - It can be overwhelming to think about
making significant changes in one's life. Individuals must start
by taking small steps and building on their successes. This can
help them build confidence and motivation to continue making
positive changes.
5. Seek support - Overcoming the "I can't" mentality can be
challenging, and individuals must seek support from loved
ones, support groups, or mental health professionals. They
must surround themselves with people who believe in them
and encourage them to make positive changes.

In conclusion, correcting the "I can't" mentality is an important

step in overcoming addiction. By recognizing that it is a
statement of refusal, rather than inability, individuals can take
responsibility for their actions and make positive changes in
their lives. By implementing free choice and using phrases like
"I can" and "I do," individuals can overcome the limitations of
the "I can't" mentality and move towards recovery.
 Chapter 4: Implementing Free Choice Implementing free choice
involves changing the way individuals think about their
behaviors. Instead of saying "I can't," they should say "I can" or
"I do." This simple change in language can have a significant
impact on an individual's mindset. It can empower them to take
control of their behaviors and make positive changes in their
lives.
Here are some tips for implementing free choice:

1. Use positive language - Instead of using negative language like

"I can't" or "I'm not able to," use positive language like "I can"
or "I choose to." This language reinforces the idea that you
have control over your actions and can make positive changes
in your life.
2. Focus on the present - Instead of dwelling on past mistakes or
future fears, focus on the present moment. Ask yourself, "What
can I do right now to make a positive change?"
3. Set small goals - Setting small goals can help you build
momentum and confidence. Start with something simple, like
going for a short walk every day, and build on your success.
4. Celebrate your successes - Celebrate each small success, no
matter how small it may seem. This will help reinforce the idea
that you are capable of making positive changes in your life.
5. Seek support - Surround yourself with people who believe in
you and encourage you to make positive changes. Seek support
from loved ones, support groups, or mental health
professionals.

Implementing free choice is an ongoing process that requires

dedication and commitment. It takes time to change the way
you think about your behaviors, but the rewards are well worth
the effort. By empowering yourself with positive language and
focusing on the present moment, you can make positive
 changes in your life and overcome the limitations of the "I
can't" mentality.

Chapter 5: Overcoming the "I Can't" Mentality Overcoming the

"I can't" mentality requires time and effort. It involves
recognizing the thinking error, accepting responsibility for one's
actions, and implementing free choice. Individuals must also
seek support from family, friends, or professionals to help them
overcome their addiction and the associated thinking errors.
Here are some additional tips for overcoming the "I can't"
mentality:

1. Practice self-awareness - Pay attention to when you use the

phrase "I can't" and challenge yourself to reframe it in a positive
way.
2. Identify the underlying beliefs - Explore the underlying beliefs
that are driving the "I can't" mentality. Often, these beliefs are
based on fear, shame, or a lack of self-worth. Addressing these
beliefs can help you overcome the "I can't" mentality.
3. Create a plan - Create a plan for how you will implement free
choice in your life. Identify specific actions you can take to
make positive changes and set achievable goals.
4. Take action - Take action on your plan and hold yourself
accountable for your progress. Celebrate your successes and
learn from your setbacks.
5. Be patient and persistent - Overcoming the "I can't" mentality
takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and stay
persistent in your efforts to make positive changes.

Remember, overcoming the "I can't" mentality is possible with

dedication, self-awareness, and support. By changing the way
you think about your behaviors and taking positive actions, you
can overcome the limitations of addiction and live a fulfilling
life.

Conclusion

The "I can't" mentality is a common thinking error associated

with addiction. It involves using the phrase "I can't" when an
individual means "I won't." This mentality can have a significant
impact on an individual's life, leading to feelings of helplessness
and hopelessness. Overcoming this mentality requires
individuals to recognize the thinking error, accept responsibility
for their actions, and implement free choice. With time and
effort, individuals can overcome their addiction and the
associated thinking errors and lead a fulfilling life.