Five Limiting Beliefs That Are Sabotaging Your Success and How To Overcome Them

Five Limiting Beliefs That Are Sabotaging Your Success (and How to Overcome Them)

We all have that inner voice. Sometimes it's a cheerleader, but other times, it's a critic whispering doubts and fears that hold us back from achieving our full potential. These negative thoughts are called limiting beliefs, and they can be sneaky saboteurs of success.

Here are five common limiting beliefs and how to overcome them:

1. "I'm not good enough."

This pervasive belief can manifest in various areas of life, from career to relationships. It often stems from past experiences of criticism or comparison.

• How to overcome it: 

  • Challenge the evidence: What objective proof supports this belief? Often, it's based on subjective feelings rather than facts. Who planted that thought in your head, determine where it came from - this will help you to recognize that it a false thought.

  • Focus on your strengths: Make a list of your accomplishments, skills, and positive qualities. Think of the last thing you accomplished and how it made you feel. Remember, failure is a lesson not a title. We all fail in the learning phase.

  • Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. Give yourself grace and celebrate the small wins along the way.

2. "I'm too old/young to..."

Age can be a perceived barrier, whether you feel too old to start something new or too young to be taken seriously.

• How to overcome it: 

  • Find role models: Look for inspiring individuals who achieved success at different ages.

  • Focus on your experience: Highlight the unique perspective and skills your age brings. Gifts and skills are inherent not based on age. You have something to offer that no one else can offer like you.

  • Embrace lifelong learning: Commit to continuous growth and development. Continue to develop your skills, talents and passion.

3. "I don't have enough time/money/resources."

Feeling limited by external factors can be a convenient excuse for inaction. Recognize when you are allowing external factors direct your decisions for forward movement.

• How to overcome it: 

  • Prioritize and focus: Identify your most important goals and allocate your resources accordingly. Find a mentor, network with others in your field who have been where you are.

  • Seek creative solutions: Explore alternative ways to achieve your goals with the resources you have. Think outside of the box, be open to new and creative ways to improve or expound on what you are doing.

  • Adopt a resourceful mindset: Believe in your ability to find solutions and overcome obstacles. Get an accountability partner, find someone who will not allow you to remain in a place a defeat.

4. "I'm afraid of failure."

Fear of failure can paralyze us, preventing us from taking risks and pursuing our dreams.

• How to overcome it: 

  • Redefine failure: View failure as a learning opportunity and a stepping stone to success. Failure is part of the process, plan for hiccups and failures along your journey, and create a alternative plan when they arise.

  • Start small: Take small, calculated risks to build confidence and resilience. Document what didn't work and what steps you took to overcome the roadblock.

  • Focus on the process: Enjoy the journey and celebrate small victories along the way. Failures make us stronger and wiser, embrace the new knowledge and endurance.

5. "I don't deserve success."

This belief often stems from low self-worth or feeling unworthy of good things. Know you value!

• How to overcome it: 

  • Challenge the thought: Ask yourself why you don't deserve success. Is there any logical reason? Instead of why me, ask why not me!

  • Acknowledge your accomplishments: Recognize and celebrate your achievements, big and small.

  • Practice gratitude: Focus on the positive aspects of your life and cultivate a sense of appreciation. Every evening write down three things you are grateful for.

Breaking free from limiting beliefs takes time and effort, but it's essential for achieving your full potential. By identifying these negative thoughts and actively challenging them, you can create a more empowering mindset and pave the way for success in all areas of your life.