Limiting beliefs are stories and narratives that we tell ourselves. They are often based on things we have heard from the people we have been surrounded by, the television, friends, family, school, etc.
Limiting beliefs are more than just mind chatter, they hold us back from taking chances, living life to the fullest and enjoying all the world has to offer.
They affect everyone and impact all aspects of life (health, relationships, career, etc.).
In fact, quite a few years back, I worked with a lady whom often talked about her son who had a digestive issue and that he may eventually need an ostomy. She often went on and on about how horrific a bag was going to be for him and that he would probably not be able to be intimate ever again.
I won’t go into too much detail, even though she thought it was necessary to by telling the whole office about the limiting beliefs she was imposing on her son, and ultimately me, who ended up with an ostomy a few years later.
Unfortunately, it’s examples like this of people who spread disinformation. They start planting negative ideas and stories into the minds of others, not knowing how damaging it can be to all who are hearing it. We’re all guilty of doing this ourselves; and guilty of perpetuating the narratives that we picked up along the way.
Here are some examples of common limiting beliefs:
“I will never feel good.”
“My body looks awful.”; or
“Change is too hard."
What are the limiting beliefs you have been telling yourself? What mind chatter do you recognize as disinformation others have been feeding you?
Steps to Take to Shift Your Limiting Beliefs
If you are ready to take your power back, then here are some ways you can shift your limiting beliefs:
Step 1: Become aware of your limiting beliefs and make a list of the negative mind chatter you find yourself thinking.
Step 2: Replace each of your limiting beliefs with an empowering belief. Keep in mind that although you may not currently feel the replacement belief right now, it doesn’t mean you can’t. It’s about recognizing the limiting belief you are feeling and replacing it with the opposite emotion. (see example below).
Limiting belief: “I will never feel good.”
Replacement belief: “I can and will feel good again.”
Limiting belief: “My body looks awful.”
Replacement belief: “My body looks great. I love and appreciate all it does for me.”
Limiting belief: “Change is too hard.”
Replacement belief: “Change can be challenging, but I want it so I will do what it takes to achieve it.”
Step 3: Now that you have your new beliefs written down (and I suggest writing them, not typing them), read and repeat the replacement beliefs out loud on a daily basis. Think of them as affirmations.
During this practice remember to be patient, kind and forgiving to yourself. Remember, your beliefs shape your reality. Start small, and watch how shifting just one thought can transform your world.