The Enemy: Limiting Beliefs
- It’s impossible
- Can’t be done
- I have two chances: Slim, and None
- I’m not [smart, rich, talented, tall, good looking, etc] enough
And the list goes on and on…..
Limiting Beliefs and Goals
What do you believe about yourself and your ability to achieve your goal? Stop for a just minute and think consciously about whether you have any doubts that you can, should and will reach the goal you are considering. Are there any thoughts swimming around in your head that could get in the way or convince you that achieving your goal is not possible? If so, best to deal with it now.
- “Outstanding leaders go out of their way to boost the self-esteem of their personnel. If people believe in themselves, it’s amazing what they can accomplish.” Sam Walton
The Problem with Limiting Beliefs
The biggest impact of a flawed set of beliefs this:
- They can stop you from trying, OR they will lead you to give up too soon.
You know that’s true. Have you ever had a job you wanted, or some feat you wanted to achieve, but you thought it was impossible so you didn’t try? If we don’t think something is possible (or that it’s too difficult), we don’t try or we give a half-hearted effort because “hey, it’s not going to happen anyway, right?”, and that alone creates a self-fulfilling prophecy that kills our chances. Game over!
- We would accomplish many more things if we did not think of them as impossible. – Vince Lombardi
The Good News
The good news is that (1) very few of the things that most of us want are truly out of reach if we’re willing to work for them, and (2) limiting beliefs can be consciously changed, and getting those beliefs on the right track can release the energy, creativity and enthusiasm to make reaching our goals possible.
We have the power of choice over alot of things, and our attitudes and beliefs are top of the list. Don’t let your limiting beliefs deny you the opportunity to realize the talents and potential you were born with. See “The Solution” on the next page.
