Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

If = in case of; supposing that; with certain conditions; uncertain; hopeful of an outcome

When = specific—time or place.

“If” gets your mind going, can make you wish for things real or intangible. It’s a powerful little word that can start you dreaming about what you might want in life, get your feet moving in that direction.

But.

If you don’t add “when” to that dream-list, then all you’ll ever have are “ifs” floating all around your head in cartoon thought bubbles. “If” contains the things that you’d like to have, but don’t really want to work hard enough for to obtain.

“When” brings the “if” to reality and sets you toward a goal.

It’s the difference between saying, “I want to be a writer,” and, “I am a writer.” One is passive and wistful. One is powerful and empowering. I could say, “I am a published writer,” and add, “I will be a published novelist as soon as I finish ‘Cosmic Cold Cases of Pittsburgh: The Case of the Canalucci Creamery’ and find an agent to represent me.” All of that is more powerful than saying, “If I finish this novel and if I find an agent, then maybe I’ll get published as a novelist.”

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t always live in the “when-world” of goal achievement. I spend a lot of time in the “if” fantasy land. “If only I were 5’7”, I could find clothes to fit and not have to hem all my slacks. If only I actually filled the bra size that most 53 year olds wear, my body would look more balanced. If only I had the guts to whack all my hair off and let it go white, I’d save more time every day and not have wild and crazy hair.” If only…Notice how often I default to the “if only” stance.

The word “only” also disappears as we begin using “when” instead of “if.” I mean, “When only” doesn’t even make sense, does it?

“Only when,” is a good start if you add, “I work hard on my goals do I stand a shot at achieving them.”

When vs If – what will you be this week?