Limiting beliefs, we all have them, but what are they? A Limiting Belief is defined as A state of mind or belief about yourself that restricts you in some way. A lot of these are formed in our early developmental years. Our thoughts can be shifted, or changed, and our brains can learn to acknowledge the good. The more we recognize our limiting beliefs and reframe them, the more room we have to grow.
So how can you identify a limiting belief? First, set aside time to acknowledge what belief or thought is getting in the way of your goals, or what you truly want. I like to find a quiet and comfortable place to do this so I can focus. Next, after you identify the limiting belief, ask yourself if there is any credible evidence to support it. Credible evidence comes from an expert. A doctor is an expert in his field, a teacher in theres, if you do not have credible evidence you can choose to let it go because it is not based on facts. A lot of times those thoughts are based on emotional and while emotion is a wonderful indicator of the deeper things happening within us, they make terrible leaders. If there is credible evidence ask yourself what can I learn from this? Asking ourselves this powerful question swings wide open the doorways to learning and growing. Being willing to identify what beliefs are no longer serving us, while also acknowledging we may have needed them for survival is a wonderful kindness we can give ourselves. This is not the time to judge yourself, but to give yourself additional support.Lastly, shift your undesirable belief to one that would help support you. A powerful tool for this step is the word “Yet”. For example, I am not good at basketball… yet. I do not know how to do this…yet. Adding this simple word can help reframe a limiting belief, into a space of growth.
This brings us to a Growth Mindset vs. a Fixed Mindset. A Fixed Mindset says: I was born with all of the intelligence, talent, or skill I will ever have. It is what it is and you have what you have. A Growth Mindset says I may have been born with these things but I can always grow, learn, and develop. If you would like to learn more about A Growth Mindset vs a Fixed Mindset the book ‘Mindset by Carol S. Dweck is a wonderful resource. We as humans have so much potential. We must be willing to practice, learn, and grow. To fully embrace a growth mindset we must also believe in the power of “yet”.
So how can we support ourselves or our Peers with all of this new information? The steps I listed above are what you can use to support yourself or a Peer in identifying a limiting belief. As humans our brains love repetition so know this may be something you have to practice again, and again until it becomes a habit. It is encouraging to know however that if we have beliefs that are impeding our growth we can always identify, and shift them to ones that will support it. As with any new skill feel free to go at your own pace, and adapt it to fit your lifestyle.
Finally please do not become discouraged if this feels overwhelming. People crave certainty, and anytime we try to make changes that can feel like a struggle. You can start by identifying one Limiting Belief, and focus on reframing that. Once you feel a little more confident, identify another one, and begin the process again. In Peer sessions we can share the steps with a peer and support them as they identify their own. The wonderful thing about this process is that there are no time limits, and it can look differently for each of us. I hope this supports each of you on your wellness, and recovery journeys.
Megan Hoppert, CPS
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