Friday, January 23, 2015

Overcome Limiting Beliefs

"I think, therefore I am." ~ Rene' Descartes

The above quote, from the French philosopher, mathematician and writer has stood the test of time and speaks to the power that our thoughts have in shaping our lives.

It's true our thoughts play a major role in shaping everything from the opinions we have of ourselves to the everyday decisions we make along the course of our lives. For if we limit those thoughts through fear then we affect the opportunities and experiences of life that are waiting for us.

If we could somehow get beyond the rational (and often limiting) thought processes that dominate our lives we would find that virtually anything is possible. But how do we do that?

One of the first things we have to do is shift our thinking away from the fact that failure is bad. "...for I have learned more about success from failure than I have from the victories I have savored." That's a quote by yours truly. When it comes to success, one of the biggest lessons in my life has been to accept failure or "setbacks" for what they are—learning opportunities. It's not common practice for me to seek failure but I have learned to embrace it for everything it offers in the way of knowing what not to do inasmuch as I have learned what to do. The experiences have allowed me to accelerate my life in so many areas in spite of the number of "setbacks" that I've had the pleasure of experiencing.

Our minds tend to draw false generalizations based on isolated or past unpleasant events or occurrences. It assigns meaning to each one of those events in such a way that leaves an indelible mental imprint of "experience" the likes of which drive our perceptions, and thus our decisions going forward. It is up to us how we frame those experiences and store them in our subconscious minds.

The beliefs you hold true will make up the fabric of your life's experience. What most of us have difficulty understanding is that the beliefs we have of the world are essentially made up of the subconscious decisions we have made that are principally defined from a conscious personal perspective. Despite the commonalities that "seem" to exist among us, it is safe to say each and every one of us has a slightly different perspective of reality. This reality is made up by our subconscious based upon the experiences of our lives and our conscious reaction to personal circumstances. The only reason any of our beliefs hold value is because we have decided or accepted that they are worthy of the value we assign to them.

Limiting beliefs prevent us from experiencing life at its fullest. Why then would any of us knowingly accept these thoughts? The short answer is that we wouldn't, but all too often we either accept it as an inherent part of our reality or we begin to believe it is a part of who we are personally.

Want to get past this? Then first accept the fact that you can change reality. That's right, reality is what you make of it. That may seem trite or overly simplistic but the fact remains that you decide your own reality. Remember, our reality is shaped by how we process our experiences. Begin by processing your experiences through the lens of a limitless filter. Open your eyes to new experiences with an attitude of expectation over limitation.

To change your perception of reality and the acceptance of limiting beliefs being a natural part of your life, begin by changing the way you identify with destructive thoughts. Stop allowing yourself to be defined by limiting beliefs. If you think you'll never be financially independent, you never will be. Think about how powerful a statement that is.

If limiting beliefs have the power to prevent you from experiencing the goodness of life then it only seems logical that the opposite holds true. Removing the limits from our beliefs can only serve to open the aperture of perspective and opportunity that awaits us. For if you believe you can in fact become financially independent then it is also true.

Whatever you think you know is most likely a figment of your limiting beliefs and overactive imagination. If there's one thing I've learned over the years is that things are seldom what they first appear to be. We tend to exaggerate and stress over situations and conditions that never materialize because of the presumptive conclusions we draw. Most times we're wrong.

What limiting thoughts have a hold of your life? Are you ready to look past them with the knowledge and awareness that you have the power to do just that?

In order to break the backs of limiting beliefs we must push past our assumptions and step forward with confidence knowing that whatever the situation presents, we can handle it. Processing thought is a good first step, but action must closely follow if our subconscious is to be convinced.

Once you begin eliminating limiting beliefs your life will take on a noticeable change. You will have an almost inexplicable basis of confidence, you will be less fearful, you will begin to see (literally and figuratively) more clearly, and you will begin to understand that you can achieve anything you desire. Happiness will become a new foundation of existence for you as you come to the realization that limiting thoughts have no place in your life.

Until next time!

-G-




We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to show people how to get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life.

Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
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