Becoming Limitless

Spencer Johnson, in Who Moved My Cheese, famously asked, “What would you do if you weren’t afraid?”

Well, in the movie, Limitless, Eddie Morra finds out. Eddie is on a drug that opens up space for him and enhances his mental acuity. As he puts it, “all my fear? All my shyness? Gone!” Eddie accomplishes more than he ever dreamed possible.

Now we don’t have a drug that will take our limiting beliefs away (which is a good thing because of the side effects in the movie). However, you can smash through your limiting beliefs and attain what you want and desire. By doing this, you will take advantage of experiences and opportunities that can catapult you forward.

Here are my tips for doing this:

Tip 1: Know Your Limiting Beliefs

The first step is to identify and understand your belief. When you hear your mind saying you can’t do something, what exactly is it saying, and when does it come up? Track these thoughts to identify patterns and underlying beliefs.

Tip 2: Examine Your Limiting Beliefs

Look at and think about the validity of your limiting belief. Once you understand that it is not true, it is easier to move forward. Though it is important to remember the belief voices may not stop speaking to you for a while. And when it happens, remember that the belief is not valid. 

To help you in this examination, ask yourself questions like the following. What if the belief is wrong? What would be possible if the view was not true? As part of this assessment, consider whether there is evidence that the premise is false. Also, consider why you are buying into this belief. What are you trying to protect yourself from?

Tip 3: Reframe Your Limiting Beliefs

When limiting beliefs do not serve us, it is time to create an alternative view to help you be your best self and make the life and career you want. In reframing your beliefs, consider whether alternative beliefs can be true or if there is a way to reframe your thought, so it does not limit you. It is helpful to have that reframed belief somewhere you can see it constantly or to use it as a mantra to reframe your brain. Remember to look at the alternative thought when the untrue limiting beliefs rear their ugly heads.

Tip 4:  Don’t Go It Alone

Fighting limiting beliefs can be challenging and takes time because these ingrained false beliefs have often been inside us for quite some time. During the process, you will benefit from support and guidance from mentors, peers, and coaches who provide objective perspectives, encouragement, and accountability. Talk to someone about your limiting beliefs. You want to discuss how these beliefs limit you and how you can reframe them and lessen their impact. 

By thoughtfully leveraging these tips consistently, you can gradually reduce your limiting beliefs impact on your actions, growth, and career. A more empowered and growth-oriented mindset will open up numerous opportunities for you. 

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Want to learn more about how to become the in-house leader you are meant to be?

Check out Sheila's 10 Tips for In-House Counsel Struggling to Advance.

In this guide, Sheila shares her time-tested tips for in-house counsel to release fear, jump-start your career, and propel towards promotion.