This was the poem that my dad recited to me any time I said I couldn’t do something
He never went into any deep discussion about how ‘of course I could do it ‘– he simply recited the first verse of the poem and finished up with a triumphant clenched fist high in the air saying the last line – ‘and she did it!’ Many a time my initial reaction was annoyance but gradually the motivation element would always kick in.
For years I thought my dad had made that poem up especially for me – (it was of course Edgar Guest ) which I think accounts for the way that it was very special and has entered deep down into my psyche . In turn I have passed it down to my family incurring equal amounts of annoyance and motivation as I recite it to them whenever it is necessary!
I don’t know if subconsciously someone telling me that I can’t do something, does give me an extra impetus -a desire to prove them wrong but I must admit to a certain feeling of satisfaction when I am able to look them in the eye and say ‘i did it’
I have lost count of the number of times I have gone ahead and done something that I was told wouldn’t work. I hold my hands up to say that I am probably more of an ‘enthusiastic ideas person’ and don’t always think through what obstacles could get in the way – but is that such a bad thing? How many things have not been started because the obstacles have been dwelt on rather than the end result before even getting started? How many exciting things have been missed because of that?
Now this would not work for everyone and it is important to know what motivates a person. Some people will respond to praise, some people may respond to a fear of loss, and many people will respond more to avoiding pain rather than achieving a gain.
It is important that you know what it is that will motivate YOU. What is it that will make you move out of your comfort zone?
So the next time you have a ‘wouldn’t it be amazing if’ moment – don’t dismiss it – have some FUN making those dreams come true – and give a knowing smile to all those who said it couldn’t be done.
If you’re not sure yet what it is that motivates you, start with this poem – it worked for me!
Thank you Dad for all the many times I have been able to say —‘and she did it’ – and I only ever knew the first verse!