Occasionally, a retired friend of mine asks me why I continue to work as much as I do – probably more than I ever have before – even though I could also be retired. My response is, “Because I can!” It’s pretty much the same response that I give when I’m asked why I go to the gym so regularly, or why I contribute time or money to a charity, or why my wife and I go to so many concerts, lectures, and sporting events, and why we typically walk to those events – regardless of the hour or the weather. Indeed, I consider it a sign of emotional fitness to be able to respond without over-explaining my actions when those actions are positive and productive.

“Because I can!” is, however, one of those phrases that can be used to justify counterproductive behaviors. The bully who physically or emotionally demeans those who are weaker or the unscrupulous employer who exploits workers can readily use that phrase too.

It can also be an index of vulnerability and low self-esteem when individuals can find almost no instances in their daily lives to use the phrase, “Because I can!” When working with patients, it actually is one of the ways that I use to assess personal growth. Patients make progress when they can find opportunities to productively use the phrase, “Because I can!”

This blog is being written to encourage you to monitor your own use of the phrase. Where do you stand on the continuum from using it in a negative context, to not being able to find reasons for using it, to using it to reflect your personal growth and confidence? It’s a good phrase – when used in a healthy manner.

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