Limiting Beliefs

A limiting belief is something that keeps you from pursuing that passion that makes your eyes light up like a little kid. What did you always dream of doing as a child? What do you dream of doing now that you don't because it just isn't practical? Maybe you are like me and don't even know anymore because you've been so stifled by your beliefs. As a child I had two dreams: to teach and to write. I let both die because I was told over and over again that what I wanted had to step aside to make way for survival. I was also repeatedly shut down as a child. My opinions and thoughts never mattered. Naturally our dreams die this way. But now I recognize that I have a choice. It is up to me if I let my dreams remain dead or if I take back my power and resuscitate them. The first step is to identify that passion. In my case, let's consider writing. What limiting beliefs do I have about pursuing writing as a career?

I fear that I am not good enough.
I fear that I'm not original enough.
I fear that I need a college education.
I fear that it will take too much time.
I fear that I won't make any money. 
I fear that people won't like what I write.
I fear that people will judge me.
I fear that I'll be poor.
I fear that I'll be lonely.
I fear that I won't be inspired.
I fear that I will be depressed.
I fear that I won't be motivated.
I fear that I won't be safe.

That's a lot of fear! No wonder I let my passion die. Am I tired enough of these limiting beliefs to make a change? Am I tired enough of stifling my creative drive? Am I tired enough of feeling partially dead inside?
I have a passionate child inside of me quietly begging to be heard. Will I let her speak? How do I do this? What steps do I take now that I know my limiting beliefs that keep me from pursuing my passion? I reframe these beliefs.

I am good enough.
I am original enough.
I am educated enough.
I have time enough.
I will succeed and prosper.
People will like my work.
People will respect me.
I will be financially secure.
I will be surrounded by loving friends.
I will be inspired.
I will be fulfilled and happy.
I will be passionate.
I will be safe.

What is your passion? Is your inner child kicking and screaming or just moaning in despair? How much have you stifled your desires? What did you dream of as a child? What would you do if you could let go of all your limiting beliefs? Make your own list! Then reframe it and get started facing those fears. Take that first step toward pursuing your passion. I refuse to live on in the shackles of my limiting beliefs.