How “Can’t” and “Won’t” Shape Your Life

Ever wonder why some people say can’t while others say won’t? One reflects a limitation beyond your control, while the other reveals an attitude and a choice. Despite this difference, both often yield the same result: a failure to achieve a goal or complete a task. Understanding the distinction could reshape how you see challenges — and how you face them. But the impact goes further.

Your attitude not only shapes your self-esteem but also your relationships and career success. As motivational speaker Zig Ziglar said, “A bad attitude is like a flat tire. You can’t go anywhere until you change it.” What does your attitude say about you?

Can’t shows what you’re unable to do; won’t reveals what you refuse to do.

Do You Need an Attitude Makeover?

People may overlook your limitations, but a bad attitude is harder to excuse because it’s always a choice. Which of these describe you best?

Do you consider what others need or do you only care about your needs?
Are you willing to do menial tasks or do you consider them beneath your status?
Do you pull your own weight or rely on others to make up any shortfall?
Do you take on tasks beyond your job description or do you say, “It’s not my job”?
Do you take the time to double-check your work or do you submit it prematurely?
Do you criticize others regularly but rarely find fault with yourself?
Do you embrace change or do you stick to a “we’ve always done it this way” mind-set?
Do you focus on providing maximum value or do you play politics and undermine others to get ahead?
Do you do your best or just the minimum it takes to get by?
Do you work hard to earn your rewards or do you believe you’re entitled to them?

Choices Have Consequences

If you’re like most people, you seek recognition, respect, and a strong sense of self-worth. However, these qualities aren’t given freely — they’re earned. While others may overlook limitations beyond your control, a poor attitude is difficult to ignore. No matter how talented you are, negativity and lack of effort can overshadow your abilities. In fact, don’t be surprised if colleagues call you out, if you’re passed over for promotions, or if you lose confidence in yourself. If you’re unwilling to make the effort, you forfeit the right to complain about the outcome.

Can’t reveals limitations, while won’t reflects a choice.

The next time you face a choice between being positive or negative, proactive or reactive, enthusiastic or indifferent, give it some thought. As the legendary coach Lou Holtz said, “Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.” Attitude is everything!