If you say "can't" you're restricting what you can do or ever will do.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the limiting belief associated with saying 'can't', which hampers one's potential.
Michael Phelps asserts that using the word 'can't' creates mental barriers that prevent individuals from realizing their true capabilities. By rejecting negative self-talk and embracing a more positive mindset, we open ourselves to opportunities and achievements that once seemed unattainable.
In practice
Using this quote during a motivational speech to inspire athletes to push beyond their perceived limits.
I want to be able to look back and say, 'I've done everything I can, and I was successful.' I don't want to look back and say I should have done this or that. I'd like to change things for the younger generation of swimmers coming along.
For so long, I looked at myself as literally a kid who was talented who would go up and down the pool. That's it. Nothing else. Very few people knew who I really was.
I don't want to be the next Mark Spitz; I want to be the first Michael Phelps
There are too many kids who are drowning for lack of water safety. That's something I'd like to do. Teaching kids to live an active lifestyle.
My goal is one Olympic gold medal. Not many people in this world can say, 'I'm an Olympic gold medalist.'
I know it won't be eight medals again. If you want to compare me to that, that's your decision, not mine. I'm going out there to try to accomplish the things that I have in my mind and in my heart.
As long as we are persistence in our pursuit of our deepest destiny, we will continue to grow. We cannot choose the day or time when we will fully bloom. It happens in its own time.
One hard day of work proves you have heart. But day after day is what proves you have maturity and commitment.
Concern yourself not with what you tried _x000D_ and failed in, but with what it is still possible for you to do.
Nothing is ever guaranteed, and all that came before doesn't predicate what you might do next.
Lead a life of your own design, on your own terms _x000D_ -not one that others, or the environment have _x000D_ scripted for you.
Know what you want to do, hold the thought firmly, and do every day what should be done, and every sunset will see you that much nearer to your goal.
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