6 ways to break limiting beliefs that are holding you back

Limiting beliefs are the beliefs that we hold about ourselves and the world around us that restrict our potential and limit our ability to achieve our goals. 

These beliefs are often deeply ingrained in our subconscious minds and can be difficult to identify and overcome.

Beliefs such as "I'm not good enough," "I don't deserve success," "I'm too old/young/short/tall/etc.," hold us back from taking risks, trying new things, and pursuing our potential. They literally limit what you believe is possible to achieve or experience. 

These beliefs develop over the years through a variety of factors - childhood experiences, social conditioning, cultural expectations, or past failures. 

Breaking these outdated beliefs can be a challenging process, but it is possible with the right mindset and approach. 

Here are some steps you can take today to start to break your limiting beliefs

1. Recognise your limiting beliefs

The first step in breaking your limiting beliefs is to recognise what they are. These beliefs can be deeply ingrained in your mind, so it may take some reflection and self-awareness to identify them. Write down your limiting beliefs and the negative self-talk that accompanies them.

2. Challenge your beliefs 

Once you have identified your limiting beliefs, the next step is to challenge them. Ask yourself if these beliefs are true, and if there is evidence to support them. Often, limiting beliefs are based on assumptions or past experiences that are no longer relevant.

3. Reframe your beliefs

Now take your list of your negative beliefs and reframe them into positive, empowering ones. For example, if your limiting belief is "I'm not good enough," reframe it to "I am capable of achieving my goals." Choose affirmations that directly address this. If you would like to learn more about affirmations and how they work, you can learn more here.

4. Take action

Breaking limiting beliefs requires taking action to prove to yourself that your new beliefs are true. Make it a habit, commit to repeating your affirmations daily. This will reprogram your subconscious mind. Set aside time each day to repeat - ideally in front of a mirror so you can look yourself in the eye as you say them. Visualising yourself achieving your goals and overcoming your limiting beliefs is also very powerful, this helps reinforce the positive messages in your subconscious mind. TOP TIP: If you have doubts about the truth of your affirmations, try starting with more believable statements and working your way up.

5. Practice self-compassion

Breaking limiting beliefs is a process, and it's important to be kind and patient with yourself along the way. Be mindful of your self-talk and replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations. Remember to celebrate the small steps of achievement along the way. This will help build your confidence and reinforce your new positive beliefs. 

6. Seek support

Breaking limiting beliefs can be a challenging process, and it's important to have support along the way. Talk to a trusted friend or family member, or consider working with a therapist or coach who can help you navigate this process.

Remember with persistence and the right mindset, it is possible to overcome them and achieve your goals.