The Power of “I Get To”
Written by Lauren Larkin, LMHC
Instead of saying, “I have to,” try saying, “I get to.”
Transforming Your Mindset One Phrase At A Time
We all have those days. You wake up, pull the covers a little tighter around yourself, and stare at the ceiling, feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders. The to-do list looms large, each item seeming to multiply like rabbits in the spring. It’s overwhelming, and in those moments, it’s all too easy to spiral into a cycle of anxiety and dread.
But what if I told you there’s a simple phrase that can transform that feeling of dread into one of opportunity?
It might seem too good to be true, yeah? I’ve felt similarly, but I’ve seen the power of implementing these shifts in my life.
So…hear me out.
Instead of saying, “I have to,” try saying, “I get to.”
A Subtle Shift Can Make A Big Difference
This seemingly small language change has become a game-changer for me. On days when I feel paralyzed by my responsibilities, the shift in mindset from “I have so much to do” to “Look at all these things I get to do” has profound effects. It’s not just about semantics; it’s about perspective.
When you say “I have to,” it carries an implication of obligation, a sense that you’re being weighed down by the burdens of life. It can feel restrictive, as if you’re being forced into a corner with no way out. In contrast, “I get to” introduces an element of choice and gratitude. It reframes the tasks ahead as opportunities rather than burdens.
Finding Freedom in Gratitude
One of the most powerful aspects of this mindset shift is how it invites gratitude into the conversation. When I think about the things I get to do, I’m reminded that each task is a privilege. For instance, if I have to go to work, I might feel trapped in a cycle of stress. But if I get to go to work, I suddenly recognize that I’m fortunate to have a job, to contribute to something meaningful, and to interact with my colleagues. It turns the mundane into the meaningful.
This approach isn’t limited to work, either. Household chores, errands, and even social commitments can feel overwhelming. But by reframing them, I’ve discovered that:
Doing the dishes becomes an opportunity to nourish myself and my loved ones with a clean environment.
Grocery shopping transforms into a chance to choose nourishing foods for my body.
Running errands is an opportunity to get outside, move my body, and appreciate my surroundings.
Overcoming Overwhelm Paralysis
One of the biggest hurdles when you’re feeling overwhelmed is the paralysis that can set in. It’s like standing at the base of a mountain, unsure of where to start the climb. When you feel like you “have to” do everything, the sheer volume of tasks can leave you frozen.
Switching to “I get to” can help to break that paralysis. It creates a sense of momentum. Instead of focusing on the daunting list, I can pick one task that I feel excited about, or at least willing to tackle. It might be something small, like responding to an email or taking a short walk. Once I complete one task, I often find the motivation to move on to the next, and suddenly, the mountain feels a little less steep.
How to Implement Realistic Changes
Incorporating this mindset shift into daily life takes practice, but the payoff is worth it. Here are a few tips that have helped me adopt this new language and perspective:
Start Small
Begin by identifying a few tasks each day that feel burdensome. As you notice these moments, consciously shift your language to “I get to.” Over time, this will become more natural.
Use Reminders
Write down affirmations or quotes that reflect this mindset. Place them where you’ll see them daily—on your mirror, your desk, or even as your phone wallpaper.
Journal About It
At the end of each day, jot down a few things you got to do. Reflect on how they made you feel. This practice of gratitude can reinforce the benefits of your new perspective.
Share It with Others
Talk about this mindset shift with friends or family. Sharing your experiences can help solidify the change and encourage those around you to adopt it as well.
Celebrating Your Wins
As you incorporate this shift into your life, take time to celebrate your victories, no matter how small. When you complete a task and think, “I got to do that,” allow yourself to feel a sense of accomplishment and joy. This celebration builds positive reinforcement and can help you embrace even the most mundane aspects of life.
The Big Picture
Life will always present challenges, and there will be days when the weight of responsibilities feels heavy. But by choosing to view them through the lens of opportunity, I’ve found a sense of freedom and gratitude that profoundly impacts my mental well-being.
The next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, remember that a simple shift in language can lead to a shift in perspective. Instead of saying “I have to,” embrace the phrase “I get to,” and watch how it transforms your relationship with your responsibilities. Life is filled with opportunities, and every task is a chance to grow, learn, and appreciate the journey. So, let’s get to it!
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