For the last seven years, I’ve donated my hair about every other year (my most recent escapade is captured below utilizing my mad selfie skills… that was sarcasm). I’m not telling you this to subtly receive accolades or have you think, “That Steph, she’s a swell gal.” Quite the opposite. My motives to donate my hair seven years ago were completely selfish. Ya see, I had a limiting belief and the way that I challenged that belief, was by cutting and donating my hair. Now, every time I donate, it’s not only an action that helps an organization I believe in; it’s also a powerful reminder that I challenged a belief and came out just fine. Honestly, it builds momentum and confidence to challenge more negative thoughts.
I’d like more of that in my life. Are you game? (*Blogger assumes you say yes*)
Think of a limiting belief you have—it can be anything. While you’re thinking of that, I’m going to use an example of one of the most common limiting beliefs I hear: I’m not enough. That’s a punch-in-the-gut zinger and it’s something I can relate to as well.
How is this belief serving me? The usual response is, “It’s not. In fact, it’s holding me back from a lot of things, wasting energy, and causing me pain. It’s exhausting believing that.” I’m nodding my head yes in agreement. Yet, somehow we keep holding that belief? Why is that? Let’s go back to our example: I’m not enough. How is not feeling enough serving me? This took me a while to figure out, because my initial response is like everyone’s—it’s not! However, when I really thought about it, I realized that it does serve me. How? It protects me. For instance, if I hold onto the belief that I’m not good enough to run a business, then I won’t take chances to put the real me out into the world. I’ll play small. I’ll blend in. No one will notice me, which means the potential for someone to make a scathing comment is highly unlikely, and I remain safe and protected. So, I’m not enough is comfortable. Most limiting thoughts are in a weird way. Now we’re on to something…
What is the opposite of my limiting belief? For our example, it’s I’m enough. Man, just writing that feels expansive and freeing. Whatever your opposite belief is, say it out loud or write it down.
How is the opposite belief serving me? For our example, believing I’m enough means I would be unapologetically me and set my fear of judgement and pleasing others aside, knowing that the benefit of truly helping others outweighs the risk of hurtful comments. Maybe I’d shoot more videos, do a podcast, or create more challenges and ebooks. I know for sure I’d spend less time and energy fretting about what others think, which means I’d have more energy to live my life fully. This is definitely big picture thinking that isn’t going to happen overnight. It’s going to take work and it’s going to be uncomfortable at times. It’s also not going to be perfect. Embrace the humanness. All skills get better with practice.
What is one small thing I can do today to shift towards my new belief that (state opposite belief)? Small is a relative word, so please remember that my example may seem too small or too big compared to what you are thinking. That’s okay. It should be something that feels challenging, but doable for YOU. For our example, one small thing I can do today to shift towards my new belief that I’m good enough to run a business is to make another short exercise video. Will that take time and effort? Yes. Will it be uncomfortable to put another video out in the world for all to judge? Yes. Could no one watch it? Yes. Could 200 people watch it? Yes, and there is only one way to find out. Now, go get ‘em, Tiger!
If you feel comfortable, please comment below on what your one small thing is that you can do today to shift towards your new belief?
If you felt this post was helpful, please like it and share it with your friends and family. I’d really appreciate it.
With love, Steph
