It isn't the words "can't" or "don't" that deter us. I think it is rather words like "enough" or "after."

You can't do that, or don't do that can actually inspire a person to continue. They are almost like a "double dog dare you."

On the other hand, "enough" and/or "after" can definitely stop, delay or detour us on our way to making our dreams a reality, to achieving our goals. It may be not "enough" time or money. Maybe you don't have enough expertise and have to go back to school or do additional research. Maybe you don't have "enough" help. There are countless example of circumstances when "enough" stands in our way.

The same can be said about "after." Initially, a person thinks that if "after" is the reason a person stops, delays or becomes detoured on their way, it is because they are procrastinating. Although in some cases that is absolutely true, other times having to wait until "after" is a true and viable roadblock. Sometimes life creates situations that require a responsible person to wait or change their plans until "after."

When someone continuously is derailed because of not having "enough" or having to wait until "after" it can be easier to shelve their dream or goal than to persevere. I think that is when a person's resolve and determination are tested. It is when a person most needs their fairy godmother to show up like in the fairy tales. It seems to be when an unexpected guardian angel is most likely to show up. It is when the term "support system" is most clearly understood and appreciated and needed.

No dream is too high for those with their eyes in the sky. - Buzz Aldrin

It must be borne in mind that the tragedy of life doesn't lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach. It isn't a calamity to die with dreams unfulfilled, but it is a calamity not to dream. It is not a disgrace not to reach the stars, but it is a disgrace to have no stars to reach for. Not failure, but low aim is sin. - Benjamin E. Mays

Confucius says, "When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don't adjust the goals, adjust the action steps."