In the classic children’s story The Little Engine That Could, a small train faces a seemingly impossible challenge—climbing a steep hill while pulling heavy cargo. The bigger engines refuse to help, but the little engine, despite being small, repeats a simple mantra: “I think I can, I think I can.”

Against all odds, the little engine perseveres, keeps pushing forward, and ultimately succeeds. While it may be a children’s story, this simple phrase—“I think I can”—contains one of the most powerful psychological tools for overcoming challenges, staying motivated, and keeping your spirits up.

Let’s explore the science behind this technique and how you can use it to build resilience, confidence, and mental strength in everyday life.

1. Why “I Think I Can” Works: The Psychology Behind It

Positive self-talk isn’t just a feel-good trick—it’s backed by research in cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science.

a) It Rewires Your Brain for Success

• When you say “I think I can”, your brain releases dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with motivation and persistence.
• Dopamine enhances focus, problem-solving ability, and resilience.
• The more you repeat this phrase, the more your brain starts believing it, reinforcing the pathway for perseverance.

Telling yourself “I think I can” makes your brain act as if success is possible—so you try harder and stay motivated.

b) It Counters Negative Thinking and Fear

• Many people struggle with self-doubt and negative inner dialogue:
  “This is too hard.”
  “I’m not good enough.”
  “I’ll probably fail.”
• Negative thinking triggers stress hormones, making challenges feel overwhelming.
• Saying “I think I can” replaces self-doubt with optimism and possibility.

A hopeful mindset helps you push through difficulties instead of giving up.

c) It Activates the “Growth Mindset”

• Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck introduced the concept of a growth mindset—believing that abilities can be developed through effort.
• Saying “I think I can” reinforces this mindset, making you more likely to persist, adapt, and learn from failure.
• People with a growth mindset achieve more because they see challenges as opportunities, not barriers.

Your belief in your ability directly impacts your performance.

2. How to Use “I Think I Can” in Daily Life

a) Use It During Difficult Moments

• Whether it’s working on a tough project, facing a personal challenge, or starting a new goal, use the phrase “I think I can” to stay motivated.
• Repeat it out loud or in your head whenever you feel doubt creeping in.

Example:
Facing a job interview? Say “I think I can stay calm and answer confidently.”
Struggling with a workout? Say “I think I can finish these last reps.”

This simple shift in thinking keeps you pushing forward instead of quitting.

b) Pair It with Action

• Saying “I think I can” isn’t about blind optimism—it’s about reinforcing real effort.
• Combine it with small, continuous actions toward your goal.
• Example: Instead of just thinking “I think I can learn Spanish,” take the first step—download a language app and practice daily.

Positive self-talk + Action = Real progress

c) Teach It to Kids (and Yourself!)

• The phrase “I think I can” is simple but builds mental resilience from an early age.
• If a child (or even an adult) struggles with something, encourage them to say it before attempting a task.
• Over time, this creates a habit of believing in one’s own ability.

Confidence is built through small wins—each time you say “I think I can,” you’re reinforcing that you are capable.

3. The Science-Proven Benefits of This Mental Trick

Studies confirm that positive affirmations like “I think I can” lead to real improvements in:

Problem-Solving Skills – The brain works better under positive expectations.
Emotional Resilience – People handle stress better when they encourage themselves.
Athletic Performance – Athletes who use self-talk push through physical exhaustion.
Academic Success – Students who believe effort leads to success perform better.

Your mindset directly influences your results.

4. The Key Takeaway: Small Thoughts Create Big Changes

At its core, The Little Engine That Could teaches us a powerful truth about human psychology:

Your thoughts shape your actions, and your actions determine your success.

When faced with a challenge, you have two choices:

• Give up and believe you can’t.
• Keep going and believe you can.

Which mindset will take you further?

Start saying “I think I can,” and watch how your mindset—and life—begins to change.