Introduction
In her book "Everything is Figureoutable," Marie Forleo presents a powerful philosophy for overcoming obstacles and achieving your goals. The core idea is simple yet profound: no matter what challenges you face, there's always a solution if you're willing to put in the effort to figure it out. This mindset can be applied to all areas of life, from personal growth to professional success.
Forleo developed this philosophy from watching her mother tackle household repairs and projects despite having no formal training. When asked how she knew how to do all these things, her mother simply replied that "everything is figureoutable." This became a guiding principle in Forleo's life, helping her navigate career changes, build a successful business, and inspire millions through her online platforms.
The book offers practical advice and strategies for adopting this empowering mindset and putting it into action. It challenges readers to confront their self-limiting beliefs, overcome common excuses, and take proactive steps toward their dreams. Through personal anecdotes, exercises, and actionable tips, Forleo shows how anyone can cultivate resilience, creativity, and determination to solve problems and achieve their goals.
The Power of Belief
One of the central themes in "Everything is Figureoutable" is the profound impact our beliefs have on our lives. Forleo argues that our beliefs act as self-fulfilling prophecies, either limiting our potential or empowering us to reach new heights.
Self-Limiting vs. Self-Empowering Beliefs
Self-limiting beliefs are those negative thoughts that hold us back from pursuing our goals. They often manifest as statements like "I'm not good enough," "I don't have what it takes," or "It's too late for me." These beliefs can be incredibly damaging because they prevent us from even trying to achieve our dreams.
On the other hand, self-empowering beliefs are positive thoughts that motivate us to take action and persevere in the face of challenges. They sound more like "I can learn and grow," "I have unique talents to offer," or "It's never too late to start."
Forleo emphasizes that our beliefs shape our reality. If we believe we can't do something, we won't even attempt it, thus ensuring our failure. But if we believe we can figure things out, we're much more likely to take action and find solutions.
The Ultimate Self-Empowering Belief
The book's titular philosophy - "everything is figureoutable" - is presented as the ultimate self-empowering belief. It's a powerful antidote to all self-limiting beliefs because it assumes that every problem has a solution. This doesn't mean that solutions will always be easy or immediate, but it instills a sense of hope and determination.
Adopting this belief doesn't require blind optimism or denying the existence of real challenges. Instead, it's about approaching problems with a proactive, solution-oriented mindset. It's about saying, "I may not know how to solve this yet, but I believe there's a way, and I'm going to find it."
Changing Your Beliefs
Forleo acknowledges that changing deeply ingrained beliefs isn't easy, but it's possible with conscious effort. She suggests several strategies:
Awareness: The first step is recognizing your self-limiting beliefs. Pay attention to your inner dialogue and identify negative thought patterns.
Challenge: Question the validity of your limiting beliefs. Are they based on facts or assumptions? Look for evidence that contradicts these beliefs.
Reframe: Replace limiting beliefs with empowering ones. For example, instead of "I'm too old to start a new career," try "My experience gives me a unique perspective in this new field."
Act: Take action that aligns with your new, empowering beliefs. Even small steps can help reinforce positive thought patterns.
Persist: Changing beliefs is a process. Be patient with yourself and keep reinforcing the new beliefs through action and positive self-talk.
Overcoming Excuses
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to addressing common excuses that prevent people from pursuing their goals. Forleo argues that most self-limiting beliefs are actually just excuses in disguise.
The "Can't" vs. "Won't" Distinction
Forleo emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between "can't" and "won't." When we say we can't do something, we're often really saying we won't do it. This subtle shift in language is crucial because it puts the power back in our hands.
For example, instead of saying "I can't afford to start a business," a more accurate statement might be "I'm not willing to make the financial sacrifices necessary to start a business right now." This reframing acknowledges our agency in the situation and opens up possibilities for change.
Common Excuses Debunked
The book tackles three of the most common excuses people use:
- "I don't have enough time" Forleo challenges readers to examine how they're currently spending their time. She suggests a thought experiment: If your doctor told you that you needed to sit still for two hours a day to cure a fatal disease, you'd probably find a way to make that time. This illustrates that we often have more control over our time than we think.
Practical tips for finding more time include:
- Limiting social media and TV time
- Waking up earlier
- Batching similar tasks
- Saying no to non-essential commitments
- "I don't have enough money" Forleo points out that many goals don't actually require money to get started. For those that do, she suggests creative ways to gather funds:
- Taking on side jobs
- Selling unused items
- Cutting unnecessary expenses
- Exploring grants or crowdfunding options
- "I don't know how to do it" In today's information age, this excuse holds little water. Forleo reminds readers of the vast resources available:
- Free online courses and tutorials
- Books and podcasts
- Mentors and networking opportunities
- Workshops and classes
The key is to start with what you know and be willing to learn as you go.
Taking Responsibility
By addressing these excuses head-on, Forleo encourages readers to take responsibility for their choices and actions. She argues that owning our decisions - even the decision not to pursue something - is empowering. It allows us to recognize our agency and opens up the possibility of making different choices in the future.
Dealing with Fear
Fear is a natural part of pursuing any meaningful goal, but Forleo argues that we don't have to let it hold us back. In fact, she suggests that fear can even be used to our advantage.
Reinterpreting Fear
One of the key strategies Forleo presents is reinterpreting the physical sensations of fear. The racing heart, sweaty palms, and butterflies in the stomach that we associate with fear are physiologically similar to the sensations of excitement. By consciously reframing these feelings as signs of anticipation and readiness, we can shift our mindset from one of avoidance to one of engagement.
She shares the example of Bruce Springsteen, who experiences the same physical sensations before going on stage but interprets them as excitement and readiness to perform, rather than debilitating fear.
Fear as a Compass
Forleo also suggests viewing fear as a compass pointing towards what's truly important to us. If we feel afraid about pursuing something, it often means that it matters deeply to us. This perspective can help us push through fear rather than being paralyzed by it.
Action Despite Fear
A crucial point in the book is that we don't need to wait for fear to disappear before taking action. In fact, waiting for fearlessness often leads to indefinite inaction. Instead, Forleo encourages readers to acknowledge their fear and take action anyway.
She provides several strategies for moving forward despite fear:
Start small: Break down intimidating goals into smaller, less scary steps.
Use visualization: Imagine yourself successfully completing the feared task.
Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself as you face your fears.
Seek support: Share your fears with trusted friends or mentors who can offer encouragement.
Focus on service: Shift your focus from your own fears to how your actions can help others.
Overcoming Indecision
Indecision is another major obstacle that Forleo addresses in the book. She argues that excessive deliberation can be just as harmful as rash decision-making, as it often leads to paralysis and missed opportunities.
Action Leads to Clarity
A key insight Forleo shares is that clarity comes from engagement, not thought. While it's important to think things through and do research, at some point, you need to take action to gain real clarity.
She uses her own experience of becoming a dancer as an example. It wasn't until she actually took a dance class that she knew for certain it was something she wanted to pursue. This principle applies to many areas of life - whether it's a career change, a relationship decision, or a creative project.
Small Steps Forward
To combat indecision, Forleo advocates for taking small, low-risk steps to test the waters. Instead of agonizing over whether to make a major life change, find ways to experiment on a smaller scale. For example:
- If you're considering a career change, try volunteering or freelancing in the new field before quitting your current job.
- If you're unsure about moving to a new city, visit for an extended period first.
- If you're thinking about starting a business, try selling your product or service on a small scale before investing heavily.
These small steps can provide valuable information and experience, making the bigger decision easier.
Trusting Your Gut
While Forleo emphasizes the importance of taking action, she also acknowledges the value of intuition. She suggests that our gut feelings often know what's right for us before our logical mind catches up. Learning to tune into and trust these instincts can be a powerful decision-making tool.
However, she cautions against confusing fear-based reactions with genuine intuition. True intuition tends to feel calm and certain, even if it's guiding you towards something challenging.
The Myth of "Being Ready"
One of the most insidious forms of procrastination is waiting until we feel "ready" to pursue our goals. Forleo argues that this is a myth that keeps many people stuck.
The Paradox of Readiness
The book points out a paradox: we often think we need to feel ready before we can start, but in reality, we become ready by starting. Skills, confidence, and motivation are developed through action, not through waiting.
Forleo uses the analogy of exercise: If you wait until you feel motivated to work out, you might never start. But once you begin exercising, you start to feel more energized and motivated to continue.
Starting Before You're Ready
The solution, according to Forleo, is to start before you feel ready. This doesn't mean being reckless or unprepared, but rather accepting that you'll never feel 100% ready for any meaningful endeavor. Some strategies she suggests for embracing this mindset include:
Embrace imperfection: Accept that your first attempts might not be great, and that's okay.
Focus on progress, not perfection: Celebrate small wins and improvements along the way.
Adopt a growth mindset: View challenges as opportunities to learn and grow.
Use the "5-4-3-2-1" technique: When you feel hesitation, count down from 5 and then take action immediately.
Remember your why: Connect with the deeper reasons behind your goal to motivate you through uncertainty.
The Power of Persistence
While the "everything is figureoutable" philosophy provides a powerful starting point, Forleo emphasizes that persistence is key to long-term success. She acknowledges that setbacks and failures are inevitable parts of any journey, but it's how we respond to these challenges that determines our outcomes.
Reframing Failure
Forleo encourages readers to view failures not as endpoints, but as valuable data points. Each setback provides information that can be used to adjust your approach and improve your chances of success in the future. This perspective helps transform failures from discouraging events into stepping stones toward your goals.
The Importance of Grit
Drawing on research by psychologist Angela Duckworth, Forleo highlights the importance of grit - the combination of passion and perseverance. She argues that grit is often more important than natural talent or intelligence in achieving long-term goals.
To cultivate grit, Forleo suggests:
Clarifying your long-term goals and connecting daily actions to these larger objectives.
Practicing deliberate, focused effort in your chosen area.
Developing a growth mindset that views challenges as opportunities for improvement.
Finding ways to make the process enjoyable, not just focusing on the end goal.
Surrounding yourself with supportive, like-minded individuals who encourage your persistence.
Celebrating Small Wins
Another key strategy for maintaining persistence is celebrating small wins along the way. Forleo emphasizes the importance of acknowledging progress, no matter how small. This helps maintain motivation and builds momentum towards larger goals.
She suggests keeping a "wins journal" to record daily or weekly accomplishments. This practice not only boosts morale but also provides evidence of progress that can be encouraging during challenging times.
The Role of Creativity in Problem-Solving
A significant aspect of the "everything is figureoutable" philosophy is the emphasis on creative problem-solving. Forleo argues that creativity isn't just for artists - it's a crucial skill for navigating life's challenges.
Cultivating Creativity
The book offers several strategies for enhancing creative thinking:
Question assumptions: Challenge the status quo and ask "why" things are done a certain way.
Embrace constraints: Sometimes, limitations can spark creative solutions.
Practice idea generation: Regularly brainstorm multiple solutions to problems, even if they seem far-fetched at first.
Cross-pollinate ideas: Look for inspiration in unexpected places or different fields.
Take breaks: Allow your mind time to wander and make new connections.
The Importance of Play
Forleo emphasizes the value of play in fostering creativity. She encourages readers to incorporate elements of fun and experimentation into their problem-solving process. This could involve using humor, engaging in physical activities, or approaching problems with a sense of curiosity rather than pressure.
Overcoming Creative Blocks
The book also addresses common creative blocks and how to overcome them:
Perfectionism: Focus on progress over perfection and give yourself permission to create "bad" first drafts.
Comparison: Remember that everyone's journey is unique and focus on your own growth.
Fear of criticism: Remind yourself that all creative work faces criticism, and it's often a sign that you're pushing boundaries.
Lack of inspiration: Establish a regular creative practice, even when you don't feel inspired.
The Power of Asking for Help
While much of the book focuses on individual empowerment, Forleo also stresses the importance of seeking help and support from others. She argues that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a smart strategy for achieving your goals.
Overcoming the Reluctance to Ask
Many people hesitate to ask for help due to fear of rejection, appearing incompetent, or feeling indebted. Forleo addresses these concerns and offers strategies for overcoming them:
Remember that most people enjoy helping others.
Be specific about what you need.
Make it easy for people to help you.
Express genuine gratitude for any assistance received.
Look for ways to reciprocate or pay it forward.
Building a Support Network
Forleo emphasizes the value of cultivating a strong support network. This can include mentors, peers, friends, and family members who encourage your growth and offer different perspectives. She suggests actively seeking out connections with people who inspire and challenge you.
The Art of Effective Asking
The book provides guidance on how to ask for help effectively:
Do your homework first: Show that you've put in effort before seeking assistance.
Be clear and concise in your request.
Explain how their help will make a difference.
Offer something in return if appropriate.
Follow up and share the results of their help.
Maintaining Perspective
As readers work to apply the "everything is figureoutable" philosophy to their lives, Forleo reminds them of the importance of maintaining perspective. This involves balancing ambition with gratitude, and remembering the bigger picture.
Practicing Gratitude
Forleo advocates for cultivating a regular gratitude practice. This helps maintain a positive outlook even when facing challenges. She suggests:
Keeping a gratitude journal.
Sharing appreciation with others regularly.
Finding silver linings in difficult situations.
Practicing mindfulness to fully experience positive moments.
Remembering Your Why
Throughout the book, Forleo emphasizes the importance of connecting with your deeper motivations. When facing obstacles or feeling discouraged, she encourages readers to revisit their "why" - the fundamental reasons behind their goals and dreams.
This could involve:
Writing a personal mission statement.
Creating a vision board that represents your goals.
Regularly reflecting on how your actions align with your values.
Sharing your aspirations with trusted friends or mentors who can remind you of your purpose.
Balancing Ambition and Contentment
While the book is largely about pursuing goals and overcoming obstacles, Forleo also acknowledges the importance of finding contentment in the present moment. She suggests that true fulfillment comes from balancing ambition with appreciation for what you already have.
This might involve:
Celebrating progress along the way, not just the end goal.
Practicing mindfulness to fully engage with the present moment.
Regularly assessing whether your goals still align with your values and adjusting as needed.
Finding joy in the process of growth and learning, not just the outcomes.
Putting It All Together: Taking Action
In the final sections of the book, Forleo focuses on helping readers put the "everything is figureoutable" philosophy into action. She emphasizes that knowledge without action is essentially useless, and provides strategies for moving from inspiration to implementation.
Starting Small
One of the key pieces of advice is to start small. Rather than trying to overhaul your entire life at once, Forleo suggests choosing one area to focus on initially. This could be a personal habit, a professional goal, or a creative project.
She recommends:
Choosing a goal that feels meaningful but manageable.
Breaking that goal down into small, concrete steps.
Committing to taking one small action every day towards your goal.
Tracking your progress to maintain motivation.
Creating Supportive Environments
Forleo discusses the importance of creating environments that support your goals. This includes both your physical space and your social environment. She suggests:
Decluttering your physical space to reduce distractions.
Surrounding yourself with visual reminders of your goals.
Limiting time with people who drain your energy or discourage your dreams.
Seeking out communities of like-minded individuals who support your growth.
Developing Productive Habits
The book emphasizes the power of habits in achieving long-term success. Forleo provides guidance on how to build and maintain productive habits:
Start with one habit at a time.
Make the habit as easy as possible to do initially.
Tie the new habit to an existing routine (habit stacking).
Track your progress and celebrate consistency.
Be patient - it takes time for new habits to become automatic.
Overcoming Setbacks
Forleo acknowledges that setbacks are an inevitable part of any journey. She provides strategies for bouncing back from failures and maintaining momentum:
View setbacks as learning opportunities rather than permanent failures.
Practice self-compassion when things don't go as planned.
Revisit your "why" to reconnect with your motivation.
Adjust your approach based on what you've learned.
Seek support from your network when you're struggling.
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey
In concluding "Everything is Figureoutable," Forleo reminds readers that adopting this philosophy is not about achieving perfection or solving every problem instantly. Instead, it's about cultivating resilience, creativity, and determination in the face of life's challenges.
She emphasizes that the journey of figuring things out is often where the most growth and fulfillment occur. By embracing challenges as opportunities for learning and viewing obstacles as puzzles to be solved, we can lead more empowered and satisfying lives.
Forleo encourages readers to start applying the "everything is figureoutable" mindset immediately, reminding them that the best time to begin is always now. She leaves readers with a call to action: to choose one area of their life where they've been feeling stuck or overwhelmed, and to take one small step towards figuring it out today.
Ultimately, "Everything is Figureoutable" is a powerful reminder of human potential and the incredible things we can achieve when we refuse to give up. It's an invitation to approach life with curiosity, creativity, and unwavering determination - to believe in our ability to overcome obstacles and create the lives we truly desire.