What Are Limiting Beliefs
Limiting beliefs are deep-rooted thoughts that make us believe we're not capable, don't deserve, or can't change. They are like invisible chains: they block us, make us doubt ourselves and prevent us from expressing our true potential. These thoughts that you have consolidated over the years have a powerful impact:
- On actions: if you believe you're not enough, you'll tend not to try or give up easily.
- On results: lack of confidence leads to weaker performance, confirming the initial belief.
- On experiences: what happens to you often reflects your attitude. If you expect the worst, you're more likely to notice and experience it.
- On others' perception: people pick up on your energy. If you communicate insecurity, others will tend to see you as less competent or less confident.
Does This Resonate?
Yet I have good news for you: neuroscience and NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) have shown in recent decades that transforming these beliefs is possible by repeating to ourselves, transforming these phrases into positives. Here are some examples:
| Limiting Belief | Positive Transformation |
|---|---|
| "I'm not enough" | "I have value as I am, and I can grow every day" |
| "I'll never make it" | "I can learn and improve step by step" |
| "I don't deserve to be happy" | "Happiness is a right, and I cultivate it within me" |
| "Others are always better than me" | "Everyone has their own path, I have mine" |
| "If I make mistakes, it means I'm worthless" | "Mistakes are lessons that make me stronger" |
| "I can't change" | "Every day I have the opportunity to transform" |
| "Nobody likes me" | "Those who are in tune with me appreciate me for who I am" |
| "I don't have enough time" | "I can choose priorities and create space for what matters" |
How to Start Transforming Your Inner Voice
- Become aware: notice the thoughts that cross your mind during the day.
- Question them: ask yourself if they are really true or just mental habits.
- Rewrite them: replace the negative phrase with a positive one, even if at first it seems forced.
- Repeat them daily: the mind trains like a muscle. The more you practice, the more natural it becomes.
Limiting beliefs are not absolute truths, but stories we tell ourselves. Changing the narrative means changing life.