Does Your Past Equal Your Future

A Simple Change to Transform Your Life

Everyone has a set of core beliefs operating in our subconscious, controlling our thoughts and actions. They are powerful enough to mean the difference between success and failure in our lives.

Formative years set the scene.

If we are fortunate, we have grown up in an environment of positive support and our belief structure will consist of empowering beliefs providing us with a positive and confident character. However, many of us grow in a less supportive environment and will have a largely negative structure of limiting beliefs.

Limiting beliefs are negative thoughts or ideas that we hold about ourselves and the world around us and can prevent us from reaching our full potential. These beliefs can be formed in a variety of ways.

One way is through socialization, or the process of learning and internalising the values, beliefs, and norms of our culture and society. For example, a child who is repeatedly told they are not good at math may internalise the belief that they are not a “math person” and limit their potential in that subject. Another way is through past experiences, particularly negative ones. For example, if someone has experienced rejection or failure in the past, they may internalise the belief that they are not worthy of love or success.

Learning that can be unlearned

Our belief structure will compound our ongoing belief structure through our own self-talk and thoughts. For example, repeatedly telling ourselves we are not good enough or smart enough, we may compound this belief and limit ourselves from reaching full potential.

It’s important to recognize that limiting beliefs can be learned, but also that they can be unlearned and replaced with more positive, empowering beliefs.

Developing and keeping an open mind is one of the most important ways we can change our lives for the better. When we keep an open mind, we are more open to new experiences, ideas, and ways of thinking. This can lead to greater understanding, personal growth, and a more fulfilling life.