Mobilizing your energy is critical towards lifting yourself up from the down feeling, or the lethargy, caused by depression. Yet this stirring oneself to action comes at time when you may feel as heavy as a stone. So how can you even begin? Here is a surefire way to start, and that is all you need to do—just begin.

First consider confronting “I can’t” with “I won’t.” It is surprising to most of my clients when they try this how empowering it is to simply say “I won’t” as opposed to “I just can’t do….whatever it is.” There is an internal power shift that comes with turning this into a choice instead of something that makes you feel helpless. Here’s my personal example changing:

“I can’t exercise every day. TO: I won’t exercise every day. But I choose to walk three or four times a week.” The power of intentional choice. Intentional choice is when your choice aligns with your goals.

Second, change “I have to” to “I choose to.” Let’s say you have come from a stressful day at work and you need to exercise, but you really don’t want to, because you are stressed and tired. You would rather just plop down in your chair, snack and surf.  Saying to yourself

“I don’t want to, but I will” increases your perception about the power of choice you have in any situation. This is all about the neurobiology of how the brain receives positive messages. And it helps if the gym clothes and sneakers are right where you placed them so you will see them and be triggered to do what you know ultimately makes you feel great.

And you always have a choice, whether it is saying to yourself that you are choosing to continue in your job for now, even if it is not the best situation, because right now, it pays the bills, and it keeps a roof over your head. Plus studies show it is easier to search for a new position while employed by making you look more desirable to potential employers.

Simple, simple. The power of changing “I can’t” to “I won’t,” and “I have to” to “I choose to.”

The power of intentional choice.

May your week be full of intentional choices and peace.