Something to give you more freedom or confidence: Unmasking your limiting beliefs.

Have you ever felt a firm, unshakeable conviction that you simply can’t do something? Maybe it’s public speaking, learning a new language. Or perhaps, like me, creating art.

For years, a simple, declarative sentence echoed in my mind: “I can’t draw.”

This wasn’t a passing thought. I was a deeply ingrained belief, a self-imposed boundary that felt as real as a physical wall. I was convinced that artistic ability was an innate gift. An “artistic gene” that I simply didn’t possess. This belief wasn’t born in a vacuum. It was nurtured by comments and absorbed societal narratives: “Some people are talented, some aren’t.” This seemingly innocuous statement became my truth. It became a lens through which I viewed any attempt at drawing.

This experience illustrates how limiting beliefs can hold us back. We often become our own worst enemies. Hindered by these internal roadblocks that exist solely in our minds. Even seemingly confident individuals grapple with these internal limitations.

My “I can’t draw” belief was a classic example of how negative feedback and absorbed societal norms can shape our perceptions of our own capabilities. It highlights how these beliefs often form early in life based on experiences, upbringing, and societal expectations. For me, it wasn’t one dramatic event, but a consistent absorption of the idea that artistic talent is exclusive.

Some just are talented!

Unmasking limiting beliefs by changing perspectives

Then, as an adult, I stumbled upon “Drawing with the Right Side of Your Brain” by Betty Edwards. This book was a revelation. Because it dismantled the limiting narrative I had carried for so long. Edwards’ approach demonstrated that what I perceived as a lack of inherent talent was largely a learned behaviour. And it was a story I had internalised over years. My “cannot” wasn’t a fixed truth, but simply thoughts in my mind.

My experience mirrors the idea that you can break through limiting beliefs and embrace new opportunities. The realisation that my inability to draw was a learned belief was the first step in unlocking a ‘talent’ I never knew I had. It underscored the fact that limiting beliefs are restrictive and prevent us from pursuing opportunities or taking risks. They can leave you feeling unmotivated and lacking confidence.

Consider some common examples of these restrictive thoughts:

• Thinking you’re not skilled enough for a promotion.
• Believing you’re too old to pursue a dream.
• Feeling like your opinions don’t matter.
• Being too afraid of failure to even try something new.

My “I can’t draw” belief fits squarely into this category. Just as many people lack the confidence to put their ideas forward or ask for a raise, I lacked the confidence to even pick up a pencil with the intention of creating something meaningful. Even though I often wanted to.

Where limiting beliefs come from

• Childhood experiences: Negative feedback or experiences during childhood can significantly impact our self-belief. While I may not recall specific critical incidents, the general societal narrative around artistic talent likely played a role.
• Societal conditioning: Society often imposes expectations that can limit our choices and create self-imposed boundaries. The idea that art is for the “gifted few” is a societal notion that I had unknowingly adopted.
• Past failures: Previous setbacks can instill fear and self-doubt, leading to limiting beliefs about your capabilities.
• Comparisons: Constantly comparing yourself to others can breed feelings of inadequacy and reinforce limiting beliefs.
• Negative influences: Surrounding yourself with negative or unsupportive individuals can make it harder to believe in your abilities.

Why is it crucial to overcome these limiting beliefs?:

• Unlock what you’re curious about: By questioning my “I can’t draw” belief, I opened myself up to a skill I previously thought was unattainable.
• Increase self-confidence: Overcoming this belief has built resilience and a greater belief in my ability to learn and grow.
• Expand your comfort zone: Venturing into the realm of drawing was a step outside my familiar boundaries, leading to new and rewarding experiences.
• Achieve success: Limiting beliefs can act as roadblocks on the path to your goals. Breaking free allows you to pursue them with renewed determination.

• Improve relationships: Limiting beliefs about yourself can also hinder your ability to form deep and trusting connections.

Unmasking your limiting beliefs

• Identify your limiting beliefs: Recognise the patterns of self-doubt and negativity in your thoughts. For me, it was that automatic “I can’t draw” thought. Keeping a journal can help in recognising these patterns.
• Challenge your beliefs: Question the evidence supporting these beliefs. Was my belief based on concrete failure or simply an assumption? In my case, it was the latter. Look for alternative perspectives.
• Take action: Start with small, achievable goals that challenge your boundaries. My first attempts at drawing were simple exercises. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small.
• Utilise mentors or coaches: Seeking guidance from someone experienced can provide invaluable support and perspective in overcoming limiting beliefs. They can offer accountability and strategies to overcome challenges.

Embrace a growth mindset: Understand that failure is an opportunity for growth, not a confirmation of your limitations. View challenges as stepping stones toward development.

What I experienced going from “I can’t draw” to someone who finds joy and satisfaction in creating art is proof pf the power of overcoming limiting beliefs. It wasn’t about magically acquiring an “artistic gene,” but about unlearning a false narrative and seeing things differently. Seeing how often thoughts in my mind are nothing else then that: Passing thoughts and ideas.

Just as questioning my ability to draw opened up a new world for me, I ask you to examine the limiting beliefs that might be holding you back. What “I can’ts” are you carrying? By identifying, challenging, and reframing these beliefs, you too can dismantle your self-imposed boundaries and step into a world of new possibilities.

The bottom line is that self-limiting beliefs can hold you back, but with awareness and conscious effort, you can break free and achieve more than you ever thought possible. Perhaps, like me with drawing, you’ll discover a hidden ability waiting to be unleashed once you silence the limiting voice within.

What’s a belief you would like to let go of? Let me know.

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