A belief is just a thought you keep thinking.
They are habits of thought that we think automatically about aspects of life because we assume they are true. It is important to question your beliefs because the truth is that just because you believe them doesn’t make them true. You probably used to believe something that you don’t believe anymore. That’s good news because if some of what you believe is limiting you, you can change it!
First, you have to identify what you believe.
Then, you’ll look at where the belief came from, whether or not you know for sure it is true, and the impact it has on your life.
In another video we’ll look at how to change these beliefs CLICK HERE. The beliefs you’re going to be identifying include everything from what you believe failure means, to your beliefs about money, career, and what it means to be a man or a woman, and more.
For each, ask yourself how you expect that they “are,” “should be”, or what they “mean”. Answer each quickly with your FIRST inclination.
The beliefs that can hold a person back the most are excuses.
Excuses are beliefs people hold about why they cannot do what they really want in life. Most people don’t question their beliefs or excuses. They might believe these limitations are true, but the truth is that in most cases they are simply excuses. The truth is that it is often easier to continue to tell yourself that something is not possible for one reason or another than to actually have to face what it would take to make the needed changes.
So, the best way to stop these limiting beliefs from holding you back is to question them. The problem is that you might not be aware of these limiting beliefs because they seem so normal and they happen automatically. So here is what to look for. Pay attention to any time you catch yourself saying something such as, “I really wish I could do this, but I can’t because…”. The key word to look for is BUT. When you say you want something BUT… whatever reason you give that comes after that “but” is the excuse.
So, like the last activity, once you identify the excuse you’re going to question it. Is it true? How do you know? What does this excuse give you an excuse for avoiding? How can you challenge this belief? Then, replace the excuse with a good reason why you CAN do it.
Below are several common excuses, including the truth that challenges them. Use the worksheet to evaluate these beliefs for yourself and see what other excuses you tend to use so you can question them and empower your beliefs.
But, I’m not good at it. You’re not good at it because you haven’t practiced it! You’re probably keeping this excuse around because you’re afraid of failure. (See the Growth Mindset section for help with this one.)
But, People won’t like/approve of me. You are not living life for anyone else. Sometimes you have to embrace the pack of haters if you want to live your dreams. You’re probably keeping this excuse around because you’re afraid of being judged.
But, it’s too hard. How would you know; have you done it? It’s only too hard if you don’t know how to do it. The good news is you can try it and learn. You’re probably keeping this excuse around because it gives you an excuse not to try because it’s not possible.
But, it’s too risky. There are no risky changes, only risky people. If you prepare yourself, you can minimize risk. You’re probably keeping this one around because if you don’t take the risk you cannot fail.
But, it’ll take too long. What is a “long time” anyway? If it is going to take 5 years, won’t you be 5 years older whether you do it or not? You probably use this excuse to avoid having to make a decision or a commitment.
But, it costs too much. Now this not true in most cases. Chances are you are spending a ridiculous amount of money on something you don’t need, like coffee, cigarettes, cloths—everyone has something they could give up to fund their dreams. Besides, everyone is capable of generating money with a side gig. Get creative! How COULD you afford to do this?
But, it’s overwhelming. If you are feeling overwhelmed it’s because you are trying to “bite of more than you can chew.” You can’t eat a big meal all at once. Make a plan for how you’re going to get where eyou want to go but then focus on one thing at a time. (See the Creating Change: Practical Steps section for help with this.)
But, I don’t have time. This is the most commonly used “but,” and it is totally bogus. The truth is you are wasting time every day on unimportant things. Make it a priority and you will find the time.
But, it’s not possible. Has anyone else accomplished it? Yes. Are they imbued with magical powers? No. We’ve heard so many times people who say “I’ve tried everything” but when asked what they tried the truth was that they tried the same 2 things over and over and gave up. The people who have accomplished what you want to do got there by doing something different than what you are doing. First of all, they tried. Second of all, they kept trying new things. And third, they learned what they needed and never gave up.
So, what other excuses do you tend to tell yourself?
What other reasons do you hold yourself back?
The purpose of this activity is not to negate the challenges you face in your life, but it is meant to challenge you to stop simply assuming your limiting beliefs are true. There may be obstacles that have to be worked around, but they are not there to stop you, they are there to inspire you to get creative and commit to living your best life no matter what. We’ll end this video with one of our favorite quotes
“If you don’t go after what you want, you’ll never have it. If you don’t ask, the answer is always no. If you don’t step forward, you’re always in the same place.”—Nora Roberts
Ready to change your beliefs? Read/watch this!
