One Simple Word

‘YET’

One word I have used consistently throughout my years as a Personal Trainer is the word “yet.”

It is a small word, but it is incredibly powerful. It offers hope, inspiration, and possibility. More importantly, it opens the door to growth and improvement.

For example, if a client said to me, “I can’t lift that weight,” I would add the word yet to completely change their statement.

“I can’t lift that weight… yet.”

Suddenly, what sounded like a limitation becomes an opportunity. The focus shifts from what is impossible to what is possible with time, effort, and persistence.

The way we speak to ourselves matters. Too often, we focus on what we haven’t achieved rather than what we have. We are quick to notice our shortcomings and slow to acknowledge our successes.

How often have you brushed aside a compliment, yet spent days thinking about a negative comment?

According to neuroscientist Dr. Rick Hanson, the brain is like Velcro for negative experiences and Teflon for positive ones. This is known as the negativity bias—our brains are naturally wired to pay more attention to what is wrong than to what is right.

The good news is that we have a choice.

We can choose where we place our attention.

Instead of saying, “I can’t do this,” try saying, “I can’t do this yet,” and notice how different it feels. That one small word creates space for learning, growth, and future success.

Take a moment to reflect on your own powerlifting journey.

Where did you start?

What weights were you lifting when you started, and what are you lifting now?

I can almost guarantee that you are lifting more today than when you started. Yet many of us compare ourselves to people who lift heavier, have more experience, or seem further ahead. We focus on the gap instead of the progress.

Of course, we should celebrate the achievements of others. But we should also celebrate our own.

Acknowledge how far you have come.

Be proud of the effort you have invested.

Recognise the victories—both big and small.

And when your fellow powerlifters compliment you, accept it. Their words are a gift, offered with sincerity and encouragement. 

When we focus on progress rather than perfection, we develop a more positive mindset. And when our mindset is stronger, we are better equipped to tackle challenges, build confidence, and continue growing stronger—both inside and outside the gym.

So, the next time you catch yourself saying, “I can’t…”

Just add one simple word.

Yet.

Shani Darby – Personal Trainer – Over 50’s Health

Getting Support With Strength Training.

If you’d like support with strength training, healthy ageing, nutrition, or improving your health after 50, the team at Over 50’s Health is here to help you build strength, confidence, and long-term health for life.