3 Ways to Overcome Limiting Beliefs
I haven’t met a person yet who doesn't wrestle with limiting beliefs of some kind. Limiting beliefs are default negative ways of perceiving our reality. They are like a set of glasses that we wear that filters data based upon false assumptions. These negative beliefs color how we relate to our past, present, and future.
The main problem is lack of awareness. Most of us don’t even realize that we have limiting beliefs influencing us day by day, moment by moment. This was true for me too. When my own therapist suggested I take a look at my limiting beliefs, I was a little surprised to see such consistent themes pop up.
A few of my limiting beliefs were/are:
I’m trapped
I can’t get help
I’ll never succeed
Something is always missing
I don’t fit anywhere
It’s all on me
Now just let these themes sink in. How much growth and progress would you imagine a person might achieve with these ideas shaping their reality. Not much. And I didn’t start to make significant progress personally or professionally until I actively addressed these limiting beliefs.
Even now, more than a decade out from when I started working on limiting beliefs, I’m still a work in progress, but that’s the key … I’m continually making progress, rather than staying stuck. And that feels amazing.
You must address your limiting beliefs if you want to grow into a better version of yourself.
So, here are 3 ways to start overcoming your limiting beliefs:
Name Your Limiting Beliefs: It is essential to actually put language to your core negative perceptions. When we put language to experience we are able to work with it in a new way. Otherwise, these things will continue to operate on autopilot beyond your awareness.
Reflect On Your Limiting Beliefs: Take time to dig deep and consider where each belief came from, how it affects you and others, and work to cultivate a sense of compassion for the part of you that has been burdened by the limiting belief.
Practice Your Truth: It’s strange how negative beliefs can feel so right. But the only reason they “feel right” is because they have been reinforced over and over and over. They are now familiar and normal. You must consistently practice the truths that you want to replace your limiting beliefs. At first this may feel weird, forced, or fake. It’s not. You just need more practice. Write your truth 10-20 times in a journal daily. Or repeat your truth out loud as you go on a walk.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve practiced my truths:
I’m free
It’s OK to ask for help
I am competent and capable
Nothing is missing
I belong
I don’t have to carry it all
After years of practice, these ideas actually feel true most days now and they’ve empowered me to grow. I’m happier and have more freedom because of this work. I hope you join me in exploring your limiting beliefs. Do it for your own soul, for your spouse, your kids, your neighbors, or simply because you’ve got nothing to lose at this point.
Here is a free PDF resource to get you started!
After you complete the exercise, I suggest you process with a safe person. You can do this!
Happy to be in your corner,
Tom
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