When we are faced with a feeling of restriction within ourselves it is a limiting belief surfacing and can be a massive opportunity. I actually get really excited about these opportunities because they grant us the space to self explore in ways that we don’t always take the time for.

The opportunities within the limiting beliefs create a chance for growth in new ways, connecting more deeply with ourselves and evolving into the next version of ourselves. So exciting!!!

The downside of personal evolution is that it is often uncomfortable, painful and even messy. There is a component of growth that is gritty and tough. Taking an honest look at some part of who we are that once served us well by keeping us safe and protected or maintained a level of comfort that we felt was appropriate isn’t an easy process. It is simple but it is not easy. Moving into the idea that we have outgrown a part of ourselves. Transitioning into newness, stepping forward with a new lens. Ascending up a level if you will.

I have come up with a few steps that help me move through the process of overcoming limiting beliefs with a bit of ease. I have to feel through these steps as they are not linear and I can only get to the next step when I feel ready to. This method can not be moved through based on timing or structured. It is all felt.

Firstly, when you are feeling as though you have a blockage, barrier or restriction try to identify what is now being perceived as limiting. What is holding you back from moving ahead or leveling up? How/ where are you feeling restricted? Can you identify and name ? Where does this sit in your body? It helps to get quiet and still. Meditation, prayer or just some solitude can be monumental in holding space for yourself to explore what is coming up for you.

Once you have identified what belief is creating resistance in you simply acknowledge it with love and gratitude. There is no place for judgment in personal growth, it will only restrict you further. Instead, remember that this belief you held has kept you safe, has supported you in times of need and has served you well. That is why you held this belief after all! Honor that! Humans are so great at self preservation, it’s a fabulous quality. Love that about yourself, it’s ok, I’m giving you permission right now!

Now you can take some time to explore the root of this belief. Where does this belief stem from? Perhaps it is from your childhood, a conditioned belief. Maybe it is from intimate relationship experiences around worthiness and love. It could be an imposed belief from your parents, lovers, teachers, mentors or someone else that isn’t even yours, you were just told this is so and you accepted that. It might be a belief around success in your profession or adherence to a specific role that you are struggling with. Exploring where this belief was based can be pivotal to repatterning, unlearning and relearning, adjusting beliefs or behaviors so you can grow into yourself anew.

Not only does exploration allow for repatterning and self development in new ways, it can also bring to light unmet needs associated with the old belief. If the belief is in respect to relationships are you getting what you need from the interactions? If it is in regards to your relationship with self, are you self sacrificing somewhere or overlooking a need? Putting yourself second ( or third or fourth or…)? If this belief was actually someone elses are you able to hand it back to them and return ownership to where it should be and release yourself from it? Are there needs you have that have gone unmet due to holding this belief?

Such EPIC opportunities for deeper self actualization!!! I just love it.

Finally, if at any point in this process of identification, acknowledgement/ acceptance, exploration and shedding light on needs you are struggling but remain motivated to overcome this part of you, seek out support. I can not speak highly enough of the value of having supportive people in your life whether it be your spouse, family member, a friend, or a professional, support can be the catalyst for change. We are never truly alone in our journey of life and we should never feel ashamed to ask for support. Never underestimate the power of having a cheerleader in your corner who wants to see you succeed.

Never stop growing, never stop loving and please, please support one another when they reach out (within your capacity and skills, of course).

From my heart to yours, be well.