The difference between can’t, don’t want to and have chosen not to.

Here’s a question for a Monday morning ? When did you last say “I can’t ” do something ?Now think about what that really meant.

 

-Did you mean that you did not have the skills/time/resources to allow you to ?

or

- Did you mean that you did have what it took but didn’t want to?

or

- Did you mean that weighing up the options you had chosen not to?

There is quite a difference when you think about it.

Like when I went to my local car service centre to try to get a part for my car which had been ordered from another branch – which had not turned up. The guy told me he couldn’t help me because he had had nothing to do with that order. Can’t/don’t want to/chosen not to?

Or when a client says that they can’t  take on a course of study which might improve their promotion chances. Can’t /don’t want to/chosen not to?

Or when you are approached by a charity to make a donation. Can’t/don’t want to/have chosen not to?

There is quite a difference between the 3 different responses. It’s important – and in view – very helpful to know which one you really mean.

About jackie
  • Robert Hruzek Nov 2, 2009 at 15:36

    Jackie, I get these responses all the time regarding my side business. Now you’ve got me rethinking what I’m hearing…

    Thanks for the brain tweak!

  • jackie Nov 2, 2009 at 15:59

    Hi Robert – I think it is worth questioning the person who says it – if appropriate of course.