Feeling Good and Happy: Trading your ‘How?’ for the ‘WOW!’

There I was, back to my old desk at home in London, after my first 1000- days- book- tour around the world, staring down at a task that seemed impossible, tangled in the web of how I could ever pull this off? I could feel the weight pressing down—a subtle but steady resistance rooted in something deeper than a simple lack of skill or confidence. The challenge was real, but the hesitation felt far more overpowering than the actual task. While I really enjoyed reading a good number of the 2,2 million ‘How to’ new titles published every year, it made me more doubtful than ever.

Asking myself any kind of ” how?” I could imagine, I had unknowingly built walls in my mind, creating reasons to think that I might fail, clinging to every uncertainty. I cleared my desk of everything I was working on, closed my laptop and then, suddenly, it struck me: this wasn’t fear of failure.

It was something I’d never fully acknowledged—fear of success. I’d been so focused on dissecting every how—how to start, how to navigate, how to push through—yet I hadn’t given myself permission to imagine the thrill of being there, the joy of breaking through and standing in that sacred place where you reflect on what brought you there and say to yourself: “ it is done”. I realised that this obsession on “how” was just an excuse, one that let me hide from the unknowns of what success might create within. What if I simply embraced the possibility instead, with the spirit of Wow in my sails?

So I let myself feel it, just for a moment—the spark of excitement that comes from moving toward something new, of knowing I was already here, ready to be my best version. When shifting from worry to enthusiasm, I suddenly saw not a looming obstacle, but a door into new possibilities, waiting for me to step through. This was no longer about the all- consuming how, but about that sparkle of wonder at what I might be able to deliver, what new strengths I might discover and what lies beyond if I allow myself to go all the way.

There are two kinds of questions that drive our decisions and ultimately shape our paths. The first type is “How can I do this?” It’s a logical question and one we’re trained to ask ourselves when facing new challenges. But there’s another question that’s rarely asked: “Wow, I’m doing this?!” This isn’t really a question at all; rather, it’s a mindset, a declaration of belief and enthusiasm. Making the shift from “How?” to “Wow!” can powerfully change how we approach challenges, build confidence and fuel our future.

‘How?’ Isn’t Always the Best Starting Point

When you ask yourself “How can I do this?” you may not realize it, but you’re often framing yourself as if you’re lacking the ability to move forward. It puts you in a position of doubt, even if subtly, as if you’re in free fall, dropping back to the bottom of a mountain. While the intention might be to find a solution, it often plants the seed of self-doubt and that you’re not capable of finding your way up to the summit, not now, not ever. Your mind starts seeking reasons why it might be hard, why you may fail or why it’s something simply out of reach.

This mindset can trap you in a cycle of overthinking, feeding on your fears or past limitations and you stay fixated on potential obstacles rather than solutions. This is what’s known as a problem-focused approach: we focus on the “problem” rather than the potential. You might feel as though you’re constantly searching for ways to fill a perceived gap in your ability, making the journey to your goals feel overwhelming before you even begin.

Trading with Enthusiasm

When shifting the narrative to “Wow, I’m doing this?!” or “Wow, I’m really doing this my way?!” you step into a space of enthusiasm, optimism and self-belief. You’re no longer looking at the distance you have to go or what you lack. Instead, you’re acknowledging that you’re already in motion, already capable and actively engaged in moving toward your dream.

This is a small but powerful shift because it sets you up for an opportunity-focused approach. You become open to the possibilities, more aware of the potential for creative solutions and less likely to feel paralyzed by “how” to begin or take the next step forward. Enthusiasm and curiosity are encouraging you to explore and experiment instead of strategizing your next steps. You start moving from a place of confidence rather than fear and self- doubt.

The “Wow!” approach brings a sense of appreciation and wonder about your own progress. When you’re thinking, “Wow, I’m doing this!” you’re telling yourself that you are capable, that you are enough and that you’re taking control of your own life. This mindset turns your focus toward what’s possible, rather than searching for reasons you could fail.

When you acknowledge your own capability, even in small steps, you enter a “solution-focused” mindset. This is the kind of thinking that brings you to new ideas, fresh perspectives and often, surprising insights. When you view your actions through the lens of “Wow!” you naturally allow a creative flow and start building momentum. This doesn’t mean that challenges or difficulties disappear, but rather that you approach them with confidence, which often uncovers solutions you wouldn’t have noticed in a “How?” state of mind.

If you wonder how can you trade “How?” for “Wow!” in your day-to-day life, there is no secret, except enthusiasm. Enthusiasm is a powerful and motivating emotion, often described as an intense joy, interest, or approval of something. The word traces its origins to the Greek term “enthousiasmos” (ἐνθουσιασμός), which is derived from “entheos,” meaning “possessed by a god” or “inspired.”

In ancient Greek culture, enthusiasm was considered a state of divine inspiration, where a person was believed to be gifted by the spirit of a deity. This often applied to poets, prophets or leaders who exhibited remarkable fervor and confidence.

As the term moved into Latin, it retained this idea of divine influence but gradually expanded. It took a very long time to reach English in the early 17th century when had begun to signify an intense passion or zeal, though it still carried a slightly mystical connotation. In the context of 17th-century religious driven age, understandably, enthusiasm sometimes gained a negative association. It was viewed with suspicion, especially by more traditional religious groups, who considered it irrational or overly emotional self-expression, particularly in the context of unorthodox religious movements.

By the Age of Enlightenment in the 18th century, enthusiasm became more acceptable. As reason and rationality took center stage, enthusiasm began to lose its mystical connotations and instead came to be valued as a trait of lively interest and positive energy, linked to personal and intellectual engagement. Philosophers and writers celebrated it as a vital component of creativity, science and self- expression.

I like to believe that today, enthusiasm is understood as a vital force for self-leadership and happiness, reflecting our deep emotional investment in pursuits we find meaningful and joyful. I totally agree: Enthusiasm makes the difference.

Recognize Small Wins: Make it a point to acknowledge small steps forward, no matter how minor they may seem. Celebrate them with a “Wow!” as a way of validating and appreciating your progress.

Reframe Your Language: When you notice yourself asking, “How can I do this?” rephrase it to, “Wow, I am doing this!” The act of rephrasing invites your mind to recognize that you’re capable and already on your way.

Enthusiasm: Before you begin a project, close your eyes and picture yourself succeeding in it. See yourself in that “Wow!” moment, where everything you’re hoping to achieve has already started unfolding. Feel the excitement that comes with it.

Choose Curiosity Over Perfection: Rather than asking how to do something “perfectly,” shift to a “Wow, I’m exploring this!” perspective. This takes the pressure off and encourages experimentation, making it easier to find innovative solutions.

Apply “Wow!” Energy: Regularly review your progress with a mindset of wonder and enthusiasm, treating your goals not as burdens but as journeys you’re privileged to be part of.

When we shift our mindset from “How?” to “Wow!” we move into a space of active participation in our lives. We begin to see ourselves not just as people who need to solve problems, but as creators who are actively building and shaping our own experiences. This small change in perspective doesn’t simply lighten our mental load—it propels us into action, inspires creativity, and builds the inner resilience that’s essential for success.

So the next time you find yourself thinking, “How can I do this?” pause for a moment, and walk into “Wow, I’m doing this!” You’ll be amazed at how this small shift of enthusiasm can unlock your potential, fill you with fresh energy and open you up to a world of possibilities you never knew were there. Remember: everything happens twice, but absolutely always it happens first in your mind.

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