Can

As a kid growing up in the suburbs, I often found myself daydreaming about what I could be and do when I grew up. My parents, both immigrants from different countries, instilled in me the belief that I could achieve anything I set my mind to. They taught me that the word "can't" was not in my vocabulary.

I remember my father sitting me down one day and telling me, "Remember son, you can do anything you want in life. The only thing stopping you is yourself. Never let anyone tell you that you can't do something. If you believe in yourself, you can accomplish anything."

His words stuck with me throughout my childhood and into adulthood. I've always been a bit of a dreamer, and I've always believed that anything is possible. I've never been afraid to try new things or take risks, and I've always been willing to work hard to achieve my goals.

• Someone once told me that I couldn't become a writer because I wasn't good enough. I didn't listen to them. I kept writing, and eventually, I became a successful author.
• Someone once told me that I couldn't start my own business because I didn't have the experience. I didn't listen to them. I started my own business, and it's now thriving.
• Someone once told me that I couldn't run a marathon because I wasn't fit enough. I didn't listen to them. I trained hard, and eventually, I ran my first marathon.

I've learned that the only limits in life are the ones we set for ourselves. If we believe in ourselves and are willing to work hard, we can achieve anything we set our minds to.

So, next time you hear yourself saying "I can't," remember my father's words: "You can do anything you want in life. The only thing stopping you is yourself."

Believe in yourself, and never give up on your dreams. Anything is possible if you set your mind to it.

"The only limits in life are the ones we set for ourselves." - Unknown