Learn how to Shut-Down your Limiting Beliefs
Often times, as a life coach, I sit back and look at my life within my little bubble and think, "If I am struggling with this, I wonder if others are, too, and this could be helpful information for them?" I tend to go down multiple rabbits holes when thinking about all of this...so then I decided, yes, perhaps this week would be a good week to discuss how to shut down our own limiting beliefs and find our Inner Wonder Woman (Strength)!
You know that old saying, "Whatever doesn't kill you, makes you stronger"? Well, sometimes I feel like the strongest woman in the universe! As we journey through life, we often come across situations that truly give us the opportunity to repeat this old saying! But, what if it is not so much an external condition, but rather, one created by our selves, our mind? What if it is our own limiting belief?
Limiting beliefs hold us back from reaching our true potential. These beliefs may begin to become so ingrained in our daily thoughts that personnel growth, success and happiness can be truly hindered. However, if we can develop our inner strength, we can overcome these self-limiting beliefs and tap into our true potential. Today, let's explore some simple strategies to shut down these beliefs and empower ourselves to lead a more fulfilling life.
Strategy 1- Become AWARE!
The first step in shutting down limiting beliefs is to simply become of aware of them. Take a moment to reflect on your thoughts and become conscientious of any negative self talk you are speaking to yourself that is holding you back. Common limiting beliefs are words like, "I'm not good enough," "I'm afraid of failure," "I don't deserve to succeed." Or...in my son's case, "I'm the worst golfer ever and I should not be on Varsity." (yes, this is something within by bubble I have been witnessing.) Once these negative words and thoughts can be identified, it is time to begin challenging those thoughts. Ask yourself, "How much of this negativity is true. What facts am I basing it on?" Then we can begin to face these facts head on.
Strategy 2- REFRAME those Negative Thoughts!
The next step is to reframe those negative thoughts in order to shift your perspective and shut down those limiting beliefs! Instead of focusing on that negativity and self-doubt, turn them into positive affirmations. If you catch yourself thinking, "I can't do this", try reframing the thought into "I am capable of overcoming this challenge and achieving my goals." By replacing self-deprecating thoughts with ones that are I, you begin to rewire your brain and create a positive and stronger mindset.
Strategy 3- Surround yourself with POSITIVE INFLUENCES!
If you have read the majority of my blogs, you will notice this is a repetitive strategy in just about everything I talk about. Positive people build up others! Positive and supportive people lift you up and encourage you. Seek out positive people to be mentors, friends, cheerleaders, and communities that share similar values and goals. When you engage with positive people you will gain a new perspective on yourself, it will challenge your self-limiting beliefs, and it will inspire your personal growth!
Strategy 4- Practice SELF-COMPASSION!
Self-compassion is actually critical when learning to shut-down limiting beliefs. Understand that everyone experiences self-doubt and setbacks at times. Treat yourself with kindness, and acknowledge that mistakes are for growth! We can not get better unless we learn from mistakes. Practice self care, participate in activities you enjoy, and celebrate your achievements!
Strategy 5- EMBRACE FAILURE!
Much like number four, embrace a fail as a learning opportunity! Do not let fear define you and allow that fear of failure to limit you. We need to fail in order to know grow and find success. Also, did you know the Bible says "Do not Fear" 365 times? There are 365 days in the year. Coincidence? I don't think so. When we place our failures and fear into His Hands, He tells us over and over again to not worry. I am often comforted by 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, specifically the last line that states, "For when I am weak, I am strong." To me, this truly says "EMBRACE FAILURE- IT WILL MAKE YOU BETTER!" Try to think of that the next time you are upset at a failure.
To conclude, shutting down limiting beliefs is a journey that take self-awareness, self-compassion, and the ability to challenge your own thoughts to see the positive. By reframing your thoughts, surrounding yourself with positive people, practicing self-compassion and embracing failure, inner strength is gained while unlocking your true potential. Remember, you are strong, you are amazing, and you are worth it!
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Blessings!
