How Limiting Beliefs are Holding you Back and How to Break Free

Hey Queens! Let’s talk about something that’s been on my mind lately—something that affects so many of us: limiting beliefs. You know those little voices in your head that tell you you’re not good enough or that you can’t do something? Yeah, those. They’re sneaky, and they can really hold us back, especially as women. So, let’s chat about how these beliefs show up, how they mess with our potential, and what we can do about it.

What Are Limiting Beliefs Anyway?

If you’re wondering what exactly a limiting belief is, it’s basically any thought that convinces you that you can’t do something, or that you’re not capable or deserving of success. It could be anything from “I’m not smart enough” to “I’m not worthy of that promotion.” These thoughts often come from our own insecurities, but they can also be shaped by external factors like society, family expectations, or even the media.

For women, these beliefs can feel especially heavy. From a young age, we’re often told, directly or indirectly, what we should be doing, what we should look like, or what we shouldn’t do. It’s like there’s a constant pressure to fit into a mold that’s not always our own. And over time, we start believing that mold is the only one we can fit into.

The Big Problem: How Limiting Beliefs Hold Us Back

When we let these limiting beliefs dictate our actions, they can affect almost every part of our lives.

1. Career: Not Reaching for More

One of the most common ways limiting beliefs show up is in our careers. Maybe you’ve had that moment where you thought, “I’m not qualified for that job” or “I’ll never be able to keep up with the guys.” That’s imposter syndrome talking. It can keep you from going after opportunities, asking for raises, or even applying for that next big role, all because you feel like you’re not “enough” as you are.

But here’s the thing: so many of us have been there, and we need to remember that our skills, experiences, and perspectives are just as valuable as anyone else’s. Sometimes, it’s about trusting that we’re capable—even if we don’t always feel it.

2. Personal Life: Settling for Less

Limiting beliefs don’t just show up in our work life. They can affect our personal relationships too. If you’ve ever doubted your worthiness of love or respect, or believed that you have to keep giving without ever asking for what you need, that’s a limiting belief at play.

When we internalize the idea that we’re not enough, we might end up in relationships where we’re not treated the way we deserve to be treated. And it’s not just romantic relationships—it can show up with friends, family, or colleagues. Limiting beliefs can keep us from setting boundaries or speaking up for ourselves because we don’t feel “worthy” of those things.

3. Our Happiness: Stuck in the “Shoulds”

I’ve noticed a lot of women—myself included—fall into the trap of the “shoulds.” You know, “I should be more successful by now,” or “I should look a certain way,” or “I should always put others first.” These expectations can get exhausting. They create pressure to be perfect in every role—whether that’s a mother, a partner, a friend, or a professional. And when we feel like we’re failing at any one of those roles, it can feed into that belief that we’re just not good enough.

But here’s the thing: the “shoulds” are often rooted in outdated beliefs or societal pressures. We don’t have to live up to anyone else’s standards. Our own path, with all its messiness and imperfections, is just as valid.

So, How Do We Break Free?

Here’s the good news: limiting beliefs don’t have to control us. It’s totally possible to break free from them and start living a life that feels more aligned with who we really are.

1. Notice the Beliefs and Call Them Out

The first step to overcoming limiting beliefs is to become aware of them. What are the thoughts that pop up when you’re about to go after something you really want? “I’m not good enough” or “I can’t handle this” are classic examples. When you catch yourself thinking this way, stop for a second. Is that belief really true? Or is it just a story you’ve been telling yourself?

2. Challenge Those Thoughts

Once you recognize a limiting belief, challenge it! If you think, “I’m not qualified for that promotion,” ask yourself, “What proof do I have that I’m not qualified?” More often than not, we’re more capable than we give ourselves credit for. Flip the script—“I may not have done everything yet, but I have the skills and experience to give this a shot.”

3. Reframe the Narrative

Instead of letting those old beliefs control you, reframe them into something more empowering. “I don’t deserve that job” can turn into “I’ve worked hard, and I’m ready to step up.” “I’m not good enough” can become “I am worthy of all the success and happiness I can create.”

4. Surround Yourself with Positivity

You know how important it is to have a solid support system, right? Whether it’s a mentor, a close friend, or a professional group, surround yourself with people who lift you up and challenge you to be better. When you’re surrounded by positivity, it’s easier to see your own worth and potential.

5. Celebrate Your Wins

Lastly, don’t forget to celebrate even the smallest victories. Every time you break free from a limiting belief, give yourself credit. These little wins add up and help you build confidence over time.

Embracing Your Full Potential

I truly believe that when women embrace their true potential—when we challenge the beliefs that limit us—we can do incredible things. Whether it’s launching that business, taking on a leadership role, or simply choosing to live more authentically, we all have the power to rewrite our stories.

So, let’s promise each other this: we’re not going to let those limiting beliefs hold us back anymore. We’re going to show up, own our worth, and go after what we want—no apologies.

What’s one limiting belief you’re ready to let go of today? I’m cheering for you.