Third entry of the micro series of posts that aims to help you modify certain mental habits. We talked about 4 strategies to break limiting beliefs. It is the turn to refocus.
As we saw in the previous posts, we often subject ourselves to a constant stream of negative internal dialogue that tells us, “I’m not good enough,” “I’m not going to make it,” or “Everyone judges me.”
These self-limiting beliefs become anchors that hinder your potential and your state of happiness. But can we do anything about it? Possibly yes.
Strategy to break limiting beliefs: Refocus
Your concentration is your greatest super power. Self-limiting beliefs can act as real enemies that come to destroy our context. But we must remember that we can be prepared for it.
The goal is not to fight adversity, but to endure it until our time comes. Just because you experience a negative thought, even one disguised as a self-limiting belief, does not mean you have to act on it.
When negativity threatens to overwhelm you, give yourself time to breathe. Or reach for another great superpower, such as distraction. Pause and do something that excites you. Go for a walk, listen to your favorite music or podcast, or do some meditation exercises. As little as 15 minutes of distraction can make a big difference.
Think of it as a mental channel change. Instead of focusing on negativity, switch gears and reflect on something positive. Reflect on past accomplishments, enriching relationships or inspiring goals. Remind yourself of your ability to feel joy and accomplishment.
By shifting your focus, you are not only giving yourself a break from negativity, but you are also teaching your brain not to succumb to old, redundant stories. Your attention is one of your most valuable assets. Devote it where you can move forward.
In the next post we will talk about another strategy to break limiting beliefs, which is to recreate.
Photo credit: PX
