“I Get To” Versus "I Have To”

One small coaching shift I’ve been practicing is changing my mindset from “I have to” into “I get to.”

It sounds simple, but language has a way of shaping our energy. When I look at my calendar or to-do list through the lens of “I have to,” everything can start to feel like obligation. When I pause and say, “Look at what I get to do?” I begin to see the opportunity instead.

I get to move a goal forward. I get to serve someone. I get to learn something. I get to take one step toward the person or leader I want to become.

Try this today: choose one task you’ve been resisting and rewrite it.

Instead of “I have to send that follow-up,” try “I get to continue the conversation.” Instead of “I have to prepare for that meeting,” try “I get to show up ready and contribute.”

Notice what changes. Does your posture shift? Does the task feel lighter? Do you see a purpose you were missing before?

A coaching question for you: what is one “have to” on your list today that could become an “I get to”?