How to Identify and Release the Thoughts That Hold You Back
Do you ever feel like something is holding you back but you can’t quite put your finger on it? It might be a limiting belief. A limiting belief is a state of mind or belief about yourself that restricts you in some way. But the good news is, you can change it!
What Is a Limiting Belief?
A limiting belief is a story you tell yourself about who you are, what you’re capable of, or what you deserve. These beliefs can stem from past experiences, childhood messages, cultural conditioning, or fear of failure, and they often operate quietly in the background.
Common examples include:
-
“I’m not good enough.”
-
“Success is for other people, not me.”
-
“I always mess things up.”
-
“I can’t change at this point.”
The key is to recognize that these thoughts are not facts. They’re patterns—and patterns can be broken.
How to Break Free from Limiting Beliefs
1. Identify the Thought
Ask yourself: What belief is holding me back right now? What do I keep repeating to myself?
2. Examine Its Origin
Where did it come from? Is it tied to a past experience or a fear of repeating the past?
3. Challenge the Logic
Is this belief always true? What evidence contradicts it? Whose voice is it really?
4. Reframe the Narrative
Replace your limiting belief with an empowering one. For example:
“I’m not good enough” → “I’m growing every day and learning what I need to succeed.”
5. Take Aligned Action
Do one thing today that supports your new belief. Build momentum through small wins.
Believe in the Version of You That Moves Forward
Remember, these beliefs do not serve you and can limit your future performance. Don’t let them hold you back any longer. Take control and work through them. You have the power to change your beliefs and achieve success.
Ready to rewrite the story you’re telling yourself?
Work with Dr. Cindy to uncover and replace limiting beliefs with a mindset built for success.