Beliefs is a subjective attitude, thought, or a mindset that based on a fact, assumption, or a general opinion. It is something that you believe to be true or accept as truth for yourself. Beliefs can be positive or negative, true or false it all depends on what you believe.
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What are Limiting Beliefs?
Limiting beliefs are ingrained thoughts or mindsets that act like mental roadblocks, convincing us that certain things are unachievable. We hold these beliefs as absolute truths, hindering our potential and preventing us from reaching our full potential. While our beliefs, both positive and negative, are undoubtedly shaped by the environment we grow up in, they aren’t entirely predetermined.
The period between 0-7 years is crucial for brain development, during which time our parents and caregivers play a significant role in shaping our belief systems. As we grow older, society and our own experiences continue to influence and refine these core beliefs.
Limiting beliefs can have a significant impact on our lives, leading to limited thinking, restricted possibilities, and hindering our ability to achieve our desires. Identifying them can be challenging, but ignoring them poses an even greater obstacle to achieving our goals and manifesting the life we desire. Many people are aware of their limiting beliefs but hesitate to take action because they’re unsure if these beliefs are true or not, fearing that challenging these long-held beliefs might be futile or even harmful.
Few examples of Limiting Beliefs
- “The world is a terrible place.” In fact, a recent study found that extreme poverty has been cut in half since 1990 [link to statistic]. Yet, negativity often dominates our conversations. Phrases like “Oh, the world is not a good place,” “Everybody is so mean,” “The world is just like that,” and “Nobody can change this world” can become ingrained in our minds, leading us to believe the world is inherently bad. Personally, I’ve been there. I’ve said it, and for a while, I believed it. But is it truly accurate? Consider this: We are here on Earth, living as human beings. We can breathe, the gravity holds us steady, the air is freely available, we have water, and the sun and moon illuminate our days and nights. The odds of everything aligning perfectly to sustain human life on Earth are astronomical. Billions of people inhabit this planet, and not everyone is inherently bad. We have our parents, family, and friends. How, then, can we claim the world is not a good place based solely on a frustrating commute or a disagreement with a friend?
- “You have to work hard to earn big” Many people hold the limiting belief that financial success requires gruelling hours. They think waking up at the crack of dawn and putting in countless hours is the key to becoming a millionaire. But that’s not necessarily true. Consistency and determination are far more crucial. Focus on working smarter, not just harder. Don’t equate sweat with success.
- “There is no love in this world” We sometimes feel the world lacks love and compassion. It’s easy to get discouraged by hook-up culture and jaded relationships. But have you ever stopped to consider what true love means to you? Share your definition of “True Love.” Now, is the statement “there’s no love” entirely accurate? Just because you’ve encountered bad experiences doesn’t mean genuine love doesn’t exist. Look around – countless couples worldwide have built strong, supportive relationships over time. They faced challenges, but their love endured. If they can find it, so can you. It’s all about shifting your perspective. This isn’t a universal problem; it’s a personal one. You have the power to change your outlook and open yourself to the possibility of love.
- “If you laugh too much you cry too much” The saying “If you laugh too much, you cry too much” is one of the worst beliefs I’ve ever encountered. Growing up, my parents often used the Hindi proverb “Itna mat haso fir rona padega” (Don’t laugh too much, or you’ll have to cry later). This implies that happiness is fleeting and prepares you for future sadness. However, happiness and joy are closer to our true nature than negativity. In fact, laughter can be a powerful tool for reducing stress and anxiety. Limiting beliefs like this can create a self-sabotaging tendency, hindering long-term well-being.
Identifying Limiting Beliefs
Now that we understand limiting beliefs, identifying them becomes easier. It’s important to remember that not all limiting beliefs are negative, but they are ultimately untrue. While addressing all your limiting beliefs simultaneously may be overwhelming, here are some methods to pinpoint them effectively:
- Create a limiting belief wheel (refer to the image, above).
- Ask yourself: Is this belief universally true?
- Pay attention to your self-talk during daily activities. Catch yourself when limiting beliefs pop up.
- Identify your most challenging life area. Assess your beliefs specifically in that domain.
- Develop a questioning habit. Challenge your assumptions regularly.
Overcoming Limiting beliefs
Here are the steps to overcome a limiting belief:
- Replace it with a strong positive belief. For example, if the limiting belief is “I’m not loved,” replace it with “I am worthy of love because…” Provide a specific reason your brain can latch onto.
- Challenge the negativity. You’ve challenged others, now challenge yourself! When a limiting belief pops up, simply say, “This isn’t true for me. I don’t identify with this belief anymore.” It takes practice, but it works.
- Step outside your comfort zone. Sometimes we cling to limiting beliefs, even if we know they hold us back. Push yourself to try new things and break free from those negative patterns.
- Acknowledge your limiting beliefs. Acceptance is key. Once you accept them for what they are, it becomes easier to let them go. Imagine holding onto a balloon – once you let go, it floats away.
- Celebrate your victories, big and small. Reward yourself for progress! Self-reflection is also important. Ask yourself questions to gain deeper self-awareness and fuel inner growth.
Ending Notes
Once you begin to eradicate limiting beliefs from your life, you’ll be amazed at the transformation. New opportunities, desires, and happiness will blossom and flourish, opening doors you never knew existed. Want to work with me on this journey? Connect with me on Instagram.
Also don’t forget to check out my previous blog: Significance of Chota Char Dham Yatra
