50. The Truth About Our Limiting Beliefs

It’s been said you and I are only as limited as our beliefs (Jennifer Ho-Dougatz). And if you think about that for a moment, it’s so true, isn’t it? So often it’s our beliefs–our limiting beliefs–and what we tell ourselves that hold us back and prevent us from realizing our full potential. Well, in this episode we are exploring this a little more. What are these beliefs, what can we do about them, and how can we live encouraged in spite of them.

“If you accept a limiting belief, then it will become a truth for you.” –Louis Hay

Are your beliefs limiting you? Do you have any that are holding you back? These kinds of beliefs are called “limiting beliefs.” A limiting belief is a state of mind or belief about ourselves that restricts us in some way. These beliefs are often false accusations we make about ourselves that can cause a number of negative results. They often arise out of negativity and fear, and our brains use them to protect us from pain in the future, which keep us from experiencing new opportunities and growing in new ways. 

Some examples of limiting beliefs are:

“I’m too old or too young.”
“I don’t have enough money.”
“I’ll never be successful.”
“I’m not smart enough.”
“I’ll never be able to do that.”
“I don’t have enough time.”
“I’m not a good ______ (mom, person, leader, speaker, writer, cook, painter, etc.).”

And the disturbing thing is, we may not even be aware of the limiting beliefs we carry with us every day!

Recently something challenged one of my limiting beliefs. 

Not only did it awaken me to the reality of just how many of these beliefs I’m holding on to, but it also made me aware of how much my limiting beliefs have been holding me back. It was a startling realization, and one that I wanted to change immediately.

It happened on a bicycle ride a couple Sundays ago, and I share the full story in this week’s episode.

Click on the player above to listen to the full 16-minute episode.

Every day we’re faced with the choice to challenge our beliefs and our fears.

We can let go of any limiting beliefs, no matter how long we’ve carried them, and live the lives God calls us to.

May you and I be people who are willing to always step out of our comfort zones, to try new things, to embrace adventure, and to partner with God to experience all He has for us.

Thanks again for joining me today. God bless you!

Links in this episode:

• How Tandem Bicycling Is a Little Like Following God, Episode 46
• Romans 12:2 VOICE
• 1 Chronicles 16:11 NCV
• Encouragement for Real Life Community
• Add yourself to my elite email group
• Access my Free Resources to encourage your heart