In one of my own lessons, I was asked “What are you willing to let go of in order to more forward?” I thought, “Crap, do they mean I have to sell my possessions?”. But, no. What was meant was, what beliefs, fears, doubts and thought/behaviour patterns was I willing to give up. When you start making that list it can generate some great insights.
As an example. “I am willing to let go…
- of the doubt I have about my abilities
- of the fear of scarcity
- of the feeling of isolation
- of beating myself up each time I don’t get the result I wanted
- of spending time blaming someone else for what happens to me
- of the fear everything is beyond my control
When you start to look at these types of burdens – for that is what they are – you realise how much you slow yourself down with these habits which pop up on a daily basis.
Sometimes being willing to let go of something is much easier to say than do, however. Turning it around with a really strong affirmation might work for you. Focusing on evidence of the opposite is a good way to reduce a belief.
Many of these thought patterns can be really stubborn stains to remove if they’ve been there for many years. Even focussing on the opposite can somehow prove to yourself the existence of something that needs to be reduced at all. This creates the double negative which makes the original belief all the more solid and real. Not helpful!
For example “I am protected against muggers in this part of the city.”
Although this might sound like a good affirmation, look at the words. In this sentence you are confirming the reality that there are indeed muggers who you need to be protected from. You make them real in your mind and therefore increase the possibility of spotting one on the street or hidden in a corner.
When you are creating an affirmation, or even creating new goals for your work and career, carefully check the words to make sure they are creating a positive experience and that they don’t confirm the existence of anything that will hold you back.
In health, a good example is to avoid saying “I am clear of cancer”. Instead “I have perfect health.”
In work, avoid “My competitors do not hold back my sales.” Instead “My sales are growing every month.”
In career, avoid “I am no longer bullied by my boss.” Instead “I have a boss who loves my work, is supportive and helpful.”
Let go of the words and phrases that “create” obstacles in your conversations as well. Each time you say them confirms their existence. It may take some time to overcome them but, it is possible. It changes you into a true “can-do” attitude and you will see how powerfully it affects the workmates, family members and others around you.
If you are looking for one-on-one help to change a stubborn attitude or habit, consider booking a single coaching session with me. Let’s see how I can help you turn it around!