Belief Makes A Real Difference
Beliefs are the assumptions we have about ourselves, about others and about the nature of life. They are the default mode through which we view the world. Our underlying beliefs take shape at an early age under the influence of parents, siblings, teachers and the wider community. If your parents believed that life is a lottery in which some people are lucky and others are not, this way of thinking becomes the default mode through which you understand the world. It is simply bad luck that you 'are not good enough' so there is no point trying to do better, right? Alternatively, if influential teachers taught you that everyone can improve through practice, then this powerful idea will guide you through life.
Beliefs shape who we are and what we do. They determine how we will act and react to all kinds of situations whether in work, health or relationships. Because beliefs determine how we act, they determine whether we succeed or fail in our goals. The industrialist Henry Ford once remarked, "whether you think you can or you think you can't - you are right." Ford recognized that the biggest obstacle faced by each individual is self-imposed. The good news is that what is self-imposed can also be broken down. Unfortunately, this is not an easy task. You cannot suddenly decide what you want to believe or value. The human mind doesn't work like that. Beliefs and values are deeply embedded in our thinking so it takes reflection and patience to challenge and change our self-imposed obstacles. The following section examines the three major self-imposed obstacles: limiting beliefs, self-sabotage and the fear of failure. Take some time to examine your own belief system and identify which beliefs are holding you back.
