This week's catalyst is: What’s your philosophy of life? (Tell us a quote that conveys it, show us photos from it, express in your own words.)

We have the one and only Ali Edwards this week so you must go visit.

Here are my words:
I made this layout well before the election and I know that these three little words have such a bigger meaning now but this has always been my personal motto, so I wanted to put a note to let everyone know it isn’t politically intended. Regardless of which way you lean politically, I think believing in yourself and your ability to do anything you want is a very powerful message for all of us.

Journaling Reads:
There are many things I believe in. The power of love. The generosity of others. Kindness.

But one particular phrase has now become my philosophy of life.

“Yes, I can.”

Throughout my life, many different people told me about things I couldn’t do. “With those grades, you can’t get into that college,” “I’m afraid you can’t sign up for this class, you’re too young,” “You can’t get that job,” “You can’t learn Japanese at the age of twenty-six, you’re too old.” These are just a few of the hundreds of such comments people shared with me.

Encouraging, isn’t it?

Well, it turns out, for me, it is actually encouraging. It turns out I can’t stand hearing the word “You can’t.” I hate the idea of anyone telling me what I can or cannot do. So once I hear those words, I suddenly have all the energy I need to prove them wrong.

A few years ago, I stumbled into this Mark Twain quote, “Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.” It immediately became my favorite quote. I totally agree with what he says.

Small people. I love to prove them wrong.

I believe anyone can succeed at anything they want to. Anyone. I believe I can do anything I put my mind to. I have. Over and over again. I believe life is too short to live amongst small people. I believe it’s important to surround yourself with people who are amazing and to let them encourage you to be your very best, as well.

Each time you hear that little voice inside you that wonders if you can achieve something you really want, hear this:

“Yes, you can!”

Trust me.