Stepping Out of the BOX: The Nature of Limiting Beliefs

Substitution vs. Deletion: Breaking Free from the BOX

In the previous article, I introduced the concept of the "BOX"—the invisible boundaries we often find ourselves confined within, without even realizing it. I explained that "B" stands for beliefs, and we explored how beliefs shape our lives. I also touched on some of the most common limiting beliefs I encounter both in my personal life and in my consultations.

Now, let’s continue our journey. If you've been following along and completed the exercise from the previous article, you should have a list of limiting beliefs that you’ve identified in your life. If not, take a moment to grab your list—this next part will be more impactful if you have it on hand!

The Bad News and the Good News

Let's start with the bad news, so we can quickly move on to the good.

Bad News: Once a belief is formed, it becomes part of the brain’s neural pathways, and it’s incredibly difficult to completely eliminate. These beliefs create mental patterns that are hard to break.

Good News: While beliefs can’t be erased, they can be replaced. New neural pathways can be created by fostering new, empowering beliefs. Over time, the old pathways weaken as we choose to focus on and reinforce the new beliefs. They may resurface now and then, but with practice, they will lose their grip on our actions and thoughts.

Let me share a personal example: One of my deeply ingrained beliefs was that “what I have to say doesn’t matter.” This belief kept me silent for many years. I didn’t speak up, share my thoughts, or write, because I believed no one would listen or care. But through consistent practice and self-reflection, I’ve slowly been replacing this belief with a more empowering one. Although it still resurfaces at times, especially when I’m feeling down or exhausted, it no longer has the same power it once did.

Steps to Replace Limiting Beliefs

Now that you know beliefs can’t be erased but can be replaced, let’s look at some practical steps to help you start replacing your limiting beliefs.

1. Question the Validity of Your Belief

   Start by challenging your belief: Is this belief really true? or What evidence supports or contradicts this belief? Remember, our minds are wired to seek out evidence that confirms our existing beliefs. This is a natural process, but it means we must actively question these beliefs in order to create change.

2. Replace with Positive Affirmations

   Instead of simply trying to "get rid" of your limiting belief, replace it with a positive, empowering one. For example, if you believe "I’m not good enough," you can replace that with "I am worthy, capable, and deserving of success." But, a word of caution: Be mindful of the affirmations you choose. For instance, if you replace a belief like “I can’t have my own business” with "I can have my business if I sacrifice everything," you might still be reinforcing limiting ideas. Ensure your affirmations empower you without tying success to hardship.

3. Visualize Success

   Visualization is a powerful tool for reprogramming the mind. Imagine yourself succeeding in the face of your limiting belief. What does that look like? How does it feel? Try to engage all your senses during the visualization process, and let yourself really experience the emotion of success. The more real and vivid you make the visualization, the more effectively you will build new neural pathways.

4. Start with Small and Gradual Changes

   Take small, manageable steps that align with your new belief. Each small success reinforces your new mindset and helps make the belief more solid. This gradual approach ensures you don’t overwhelm yourself and gives you a sense of accomplishment as you move forward.

5. Continuous Reinforcement

   Repetition is key. Regularly repeat your new beliefs until they feel natural and automatic. You can write them down, say them aloud, or even put them on sticky notes around your home—especially in places you frequent, like your fridge. Consistency will help the new beliefs take root.

6. Surround Yourself with Positivity

   Engage with people and environments that support your new beliefs and encourage growth. As you shift your mindset, it’s natural that your circle may evolve. You may find that people who don’t align with your new values begin to fade from your life, and that’s okay. We resonate at a particular frequency, and as you change your frequency, you'll naturally attract those who are on a similar wavelength.

Stepping Out of the BOX

Remember, stepping out of the BOX and replacing limiting beliefs is a journey. It begins with identifying the beliefs that are holding you back and then taking intentional steps to replace them with beliefs that empower you. Over time, this will propel you forward into a life where you can thrive with authenticity and confidence.

Time for Reflection

This week, revisit the list of limiting beliefs you created earlier. Next to each belief, write its replacement—a new, empowering belief that serves you better. Challenge yourself to dig deep and think about how these new beliefs will change your actions and your life.

I also recommend watching the movie Inside Out, which beautifully portrays how beliefs are formed and how they influence our emotions. It’s an inspiring and insightful way to see the process of belief formation in action.

Lastly, don’t forget to check out the Versus – Harmony in Contrasts podcast episode where we dive deeper into the topic of limiting beliefs. You can watch it here.

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