The Power of Can't

[whipchick]

This speech may be listened to or read (or both, if you're feeling ambitious!). The written version is a close, but not exact, transcription.

Listen here.

* * *

‘Can’t’ means ‘won’t’ and ‘won’t’ means pushups.

I say that on the first day of circus class.

I say it to nine-year-olds.

I say, we’re not here to quit. We’re here to be amazing.

And when

Comments

[michikatinski]

You can inspire me any day.

Lovely job here, lady. I think most of us around Idol can afford to hear this now again. <3

[whipchick]

Thank you, and you're welcome :) I got the voice post up if you feel like hearing me rant!

[michikatinski]

Woot! Will give a listen tomorrow. :)

[ellakite]

I wish I had known someone like you thirty years ago...

As you will see, my piece is all about what happens when you have a few too many "demotivational speakers" in one's formative years.

Well, that and I had something else that I enjoyed doing much more, rather like that veterinarian you mention...

But yeah: you're a great motivator. Very well done.

[whipchick]

I'm excited to read your piece! I'm sorry I wasn't able to beta this week - it has been an awesome but totally draining weekend.

We gotta get on this dating thing.

[ellakite]

I understand all about "awesome but totally draining". But you're not the only beta reader I've got, so I managed without you. And I went through my tale at least three times to trim it and tighten it up. I'm a fast learner when I put my mind to it.

As for the other thing: I'll take whatever advice & motivational support you're willing to offer. I know I'm rusty to put it mildly... but again: I'm a fast learner when I put my mind to it.

Get some rest; you've earned it.

[pixiebelle]

My philosophy exactly :)

My ex hated that about me. He said I was a dreamer and needed to be practical. I couldn't live in California someday, only rich people do that (or crazy homeless girls like I'd become). I love that I proved him wrong. It's not easy, it is expensive and I miss my family like mad, but don't ever tell me I can't do something. It just makes me want to prove you wrong.

So I'm 29 and would love to take circus classes. I discovered that dream after seeing a local group of kids... I worry I'm too old sometimes (no gymnastics training), but I'm looking forward to trying!

[whipchick]

I'm glad you proved him wrong, too. And I love that you recognize the sacrifices you're making and staying glad to make them,

There are a ton of circus schools in CA - and you are NO WAY too old! I started at 28, and tonight's workshop had a ton of 30-50 year olds in it. You just need a good teacher who starts you at a safe but challenging level. Go for it!

[medleymisty]

I like the line about not being here to quit, but being here to be amazing. That's like my life philosophy right there. :)

Personally, I have a sort of anti-value for cash, lol. My day job plus my husband's keeps us in a house and fed, and that's all I need. And I do not want more money than I need.

So I make the choice to work on my writing because I love it, because it's important to me, and I make the choice to not seek cash in return for my writing because independence and freedom and living by my values is also important to me. Personally, I'm perfectly happy sharing my writing for free online, so that's what I do. And I love it. :)

I think you'd make a great motivational speaker. :)

[whipchick]

Thanks on all counts, and it's inspiring to me to hear your self-determination! You're a fabulous writer and I'm so glad that writing serves you in the ways you need. And I agree - excess money is nice, but also kind of a nuisance :)

[whipchick]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed!