Work now on identifying 2 or 3 limiting beliefs that you may have or have had about yourself. Common examples are:
- I’m not a very lucky person
- I’m not good at sport
- I’m terrible at talking to people
- I’m not a very good cook.
We all have limiting beliefs but the trick is to tap into our inner voices, hear our negative chatter, so that we can work on banishing those thoughts that limit our abilities. In doing so this could lead to a more positive and fulfilled life where more and more becomes possible.
Here are some questions and exercises to help you tap into your limiting beliefs:
What’s really important?
Think of a goal in the most important areas of your life. This can be your family life, your career, social life, spirituality, contribution, fun, work/life balance or any other area that is important to you. The wheel of Life is a useful tool to break down your goals in the big areas of your life.
If it’s useful for you, grab a pen and paper, settle into a comfortable position and make sure you have 15 minutes of undisturbed time to reflect.
Then, think about each goal separately and answer the following question:
What’s most important to you about it?
The ‘I must’ exercise
Sit down with your pen and paper and get ready to jot down the first things that come to mind.
Then, complete 6 sentences that begin with the words ‘I must….’
Once you’re done, ask yourself – What would happen if I didn’t?
Reflect on the insights you learned.
The ‘I can’t exercise
Similar to the previous exercise, complete 6 sentences that begin with the words ‘I can’t…’
Once you’re finished, ask yourself – What’s stopping me?
After answering the question, it is important to reflect on what you learned about yourself. That’s the key insight into your limiting beliefs.