What stories do you tell yourself?

Have you ever felt like no matter how hard you try, you just can't seem to achieve the success or happiness you desire? What stories do you tell yourself on a daily basis?

• I am to old to do that.

• It always happens to me.

• I will never be able to do it.

• Nothing's the same anymore.

• I am going to be poor all my life.

The stories we tell ourselves have a powerful impact on our lives. They shape our beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors, and can even influence our relationships and the way we view the world around us. Our stories are the lens through which we see ourselves and others, and they can either limit us or empower us. Only you can decide.

Our stories are a reflection of our beliefs about ourselves and our experiences. They are the narratives we create to make sense of our lives and the world around us. Our stories can be empowering, inspiring, and motivating, or they can be limiting, negative, and self-defeating.

For example, someone who has experienced a series of failures in their personal or professional life may tell themselves a story that they are not capable of success. They may believe that they are inherently flawed or lack the skills and abilities necessary to achieve their goals. This story can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, as they may stop trying or sabotage their own efforts to avoid the pain of failure. Constantly looking to prove their theory right.

On the other hand, someone who has experienced similar setbacks may tell themselves a different story. They may view these failures as opportunities to learn and grow, and see themselves as resilient and capable of overcoming challenges. This story can inspire them to continue trying and persisting through difficult times, leading to eventual success.

Our stories can also influence the way we view others. We may create stories about people based on their appearance, behavior, or past experiences, which can impact the way we interact with them. For example, if we believe that someone is untrustworthy or unreliable based on a single negative experience, we may treat them with suspicion or hostility, even if they have never given us a reason to doubt them.

Becoming aware of our stories and the impact they have on our lives is a critical first step in creating positive change. By examining the beliefs and attitudes that underlie our stories, we can challenge and change the narratives that are holding us back. We can also choose to tell ourselves more empowering stories that reflect our true abilities and potential.

One way to do this is to practice mindfulness and self-reflection. By paying attention to our thoughts and feelings, we can become more aware of the stories we are telling ourselves and their impact on our lives. We can then question these stories, challenge them, and replace them with more positive and empowering narratives. By becoming aware of our stories and actively shaping them, we can create a more positive and fulfilling life for ourselves and those around us. So take a moment to reflect on the stories you are telling yourself and ask yourself if they are serving you or holding you back. And remember, you have the power to change your story and create the life you want to live.

One quick step you could do to start making a change in your life.

So take a moment to think of a story you tell yourself and have been holding onto. Maybe you believe you are not good enough to achieve your dream. Whatever it is, I want you to challenge it today. Start by asking yourself why you believe this to be true. Is there evidence to support it, or is it simply a story you've been telling yourself? Then, ask yourself what would happen if you let go of this belief. How would your life be different? What new possibilities would be available to you?