Some questions for you:
- Is it possible that you’ve ‘learned’ certain things over the years that are, in fact, false? Is it maybe even likely?
- Is it possible that some of your (self-limiting) beliefs are the very things which stop you from fulfilling (or at least, exploring) your potential, making certain decisions, taking chances and possibly finding happiness?
- Did you consciously choose and develop your own beliefs, or did you simply adopt ”hand-me-downs” from somebody else?
- Is it possible that you’ve believed certain things (seen the world in a particular way) for so long that the very thought of questioning some of your long-held beliefs makes you feel (1) uncomfortable, (2) anxious, (3) disloyal, (4) unfaithful, or perhaps even (5) overwhelmed?
- Have you ever been coerced, pressured or expected to believe certain things, and because of those imposed beliefs you have been compelled to adhere to certain standards, rules and behaviors?
- Have you ever felt like questioning certain beliefs (to others) but held your tongue in order to keep the peace and avoid potential confrontation?
- For the most part, do your beliefs empower you or limit you?
Sometimes beliefs are like handcuffs or leg irons. They restrict movement, potential, exploration and of course, freedom. Freedom to learn, grow and change. They keep you in the custody of something or someone.
One of the most liberating, empowering and cathartic things you can do as the author of your own life is to question your beliefs. Not for the sake of being different, difficult or rebellious, but for the sake of learning who you are, what you are and what you really believe beyond the social conditioning, the weight of expectation, the years of mental and emotional programming and beyond the pressure of group thinking.