We tell ourselves all kinds of stories, many from our formative years. We are convinced they are true. After all, questioning those beliefs chips away at our foundations. But are they really true?
Some common stories:
I am not good enough.
I am not worthy of…(success, love, etc.)
I cannot change, grow or learn.
Do you harbor any of these types of beliefs? I know I have and still battle some. I lived for years believing that I am not good enough.
And while I know I’ll never be playing for the New York Yankees or be First Chair Trumpet player with the New York Philharmonic, I have learned to replace certain words and thoughts with more positive and empowering beliefs.
Here are a few things I’ve tried.
- Make a list of accomplishments
- Spend a few minutes acknowledging what efforts went into those ‘wins’
- List a few things that fell short of your original goals
- Consider what you learned from those experiences
If you focus on the positives and observe the stories that keep you down, a new truth might emerge.
Do you have a story (belief) that you carry? It is really true? Share it, please. It’s how we all grow and learn from each other. I will share more stories (without naming names) if you send them to me.
