Listen Less?

The incessant chatter of negative self-talk is one of the most formidable obstacles we face on the journey to success and fulfillment. It's that persistent inner voice whispering doubts, telling us we're not enough, and warning us against daring to dream. However, by choosing to drown out the negativity, we can transform this narrative and unlock the immense power of self-belief. 

Self-talk is the internal dialogue that shapes our perceptions and influences our actions, often occurring without conscious awareness. What do you say to yourself when you look in the mirror? Or maybe you're like me at one point in my life when I avoided looking into any mirror. The reflection wasn't pretty. I laughed off my self-loathing as torture for others because they were the ones who had to look at me.

The truth is that our minds are powerful. When we allow negativity to dominate our thoughts, we weave a web of limiting beliefs that hinder our pursuit of becoming the person we are meant to be. 

You will never go farther than the limits of the person you see yourself as. Your identity determines the possibilities for you. Identity shapes your life.

Limiting beliefs are insidious convictions that stifle our growth and hinder our potential. They are often rooted in past experiences, societal conditioning, or well-meaning but misguided advice. They can prevent us from reaching our dreams.

What limiting beliefs have you caught yourself saying or believing?

• I'm not good enough.
• I don't deserve "_______." (success) This is the thought that one is unworthy of achievement or happiness.
• I'll never be able to change. This is a fixed mindset that suggests that personal growth is not possible.
• I'm too old (or too young) to pursue my goals. The belief that age is a barrier to success or new opportunities.
• I'm not as "___________" (talented) as others. This is comparing yourself to others that fosters a belief of inadequacy.
• It's too late to start something new. The notion that one has missed their chance to pursue new endeavors.
• I'll embarrass myself if I try _______. This fear of judgment or ridicule holds people back from taking risks.
• I don't have the time. This is the belief that there are never sufficient hours in the day to pursue personal goals.

Limiting beliefs and negative talk can significantly impact our daily habits and routines, often hindering our ability to reach our goals. They can drain motivation. Negative thoughts can create a sense of helplessness and lead to procrastination because the fear of failure overwhelms us from taking action. Negative thought patterns can also affect our decision-making abilities and cloud our judgment. They could create a routine of avoiding challenges and reinforce a pattern of stagnation. When negative self-talk is prevalent, individuals may neglect self-care. This can result in burnout and decreased well-being. As a result, daily habits like exercise or proper nutrition may take a backseat and affect overall health.

Negative self-talk can affect how we interact with others, leading to feelings of loneliness, unworthiness, and isolation being perpetuated and creating more limiting beliefs. Beliefs can lead to the formation of harmful routines that impact productivity and energy levels. When we hold on to limiting beliefs, we often shy away from opportunities to help us grow and learn new skills. They can also lead to heightened stress and anxiety. The inner critic's voice becomes loud and intimidating. Limiting beliefs and negative self-talk create a feedback loop that adversely affects our daily habits and routines. 

On the other hand, positive self-talk and affirmations are more than motivational tools. Positive self-talk is rooted in neuroscience and can significantly influence our mental health, behavior, and overall well-being. Our internal dialogue shapes our perceptions, habits, and actions. Our behavior reflects what we believe about ourselves. For example, if being a morning person is part of our identity, our daily habits of getting up early to read, write, meditate, exercise, etc., becomes non-negotiable. We'll fight tooth and nail to keep that identity. The routine habits align with our values, goals, and how we see ourselves. 

Maya Angelou said, "Nothing will work unless you do." Embracing a positive self-belief is the first step toward the hard work of fulfilling your dreams. Step into the version you were meant to be. Let go of self-doubt, excuses, and limitations. You're not here to play small! Command your life with wisdom, strength, and confidence. Everything begins in your mind. Your thoughts shape your reality. 

Jim Rohn said, "You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great." and "Everything you want in life is on the other side of one simple decision- the decision to take action."

So, let's go small and start with three baby steps to move forward. 

1. Get crystal clear on who you want to be. Define your future self. Paint a picture in your mind and visualize every detail about who you want to be and the goal(s) that you want to achieve.
2. Remove the word "Just" from your vocabulary! You are not "just" a teacher, a librarian, a custodian, or a student. You are not "just" a central office staff member. You are not "just" an average administrator. 
3. Every morning, begin the day with this sentence. "Today is going to be a great day because _________." Every night, ask, "What went well today?"

Don't apologize for stepping into your greatness!