Breaking Free From Limiting Beliefs

You know that little voice that pops up every time you think about doing something new or challenging? The one that says, “You’re not good enough for that,” or, “This just isn’t for you”? That’s a limiting belief—an internal script we’ve created about why we can’t do or achieve certain things. These beliefs feel like the truth, even though they’re often just assumptions that have built up over time.

Most limiting beliefs take shape early in our lives, often in childhood, through experiences and the environment we grow up in. We absorb ideas from the people around us—parents, teachers, friends—and without even realizing it, we start to shape our understanding of what’s possible for us. If someone you admired growing up struggled with something and gave up, it’s easy to internalize that same limitation as your own. These beliefs linger, even as we outgrow their relevance. They become mental barriers that hold us back.

So, why do these beliefs have such a tight grip on us? Our brain is constantly seeking patterns, and when we repeat certain thoughts or behaviors, those patterns become deeply ingrained. Neuroscience shows us that our thoughts actually rewire our brains. The more we think, “I’m not capable,” the more we reinforce that belief until it starts to feel like an unshakable truth. We essentially trick ourselves into thinking small, avoiding risks, and sticking with what feels safe.

Unfortunately, limiting beliefs prevent us from even trying. They make failure seem inevitable, which stops us from putting ourselves out there in the first place. But the good news is that we can change this. The first step is catching yourself when those negative thoughts creep in. Recognize them for what they are—just old mental habits, not facts. Simply becoming aware of these beliefs can loosen their hold.

Once you recognize a limiting belief, question it. Ask yourself, “Is this really true?” More often than not, you’ll find that it’s not based on anything concrete. Think of times you’ve stretched outside your comfort zone and succeeded. That’s proof enough that you’re capable of more than you think. This process of challenging negative thoughts and replacing them with more accurate, empowering ones is a key part of how we can reshape our mindset.

The final step is to take action. It sounds obvious, but action is where real change happens. Even small steps can create a ripple effect. Each time you push past a limiting belief, you’re creating new neural pathways—rewriting the script. Over time, these new actions and thoughts become the norm, and those old beliefs start to fade.

Limiting beliefs don’t have to define your potential. They’re simply speed bumps on the road, not brick walls. So the next time you catch yourself thinking, “I can’t,” try flipping the script and ask, “What if I can?” You might be surprised at what happens when you give yourself a little more credit.

Ps. If you’re ready to challenge those beliefs and tap into your full potential, you don’t have to go it alone. I’ve spent years working with high performers- from corporate leaders, TV & radio personalities, not-for-profit directors, entrepreneurs, media executives and more -helping them break through limitations and reach new heights. Whether you want to raise the bar for yourself or your team, I’d love to explore how you can break through and achieve what’s next. Let’s talk.