What does entrepreneurship mean to you? Are you an entrepreneur? Do you view yourself as a successful entrepreneur, or being a successful entrepreneur in the future?
It might surprise you that many young professionals and clients would come to me and answer “yes” to the second question would also respond “no” or “maybe” to the last question.
Let’s talk about limiting beliefs, what they look like for entrepreneurs, and how to successfully overcome them, so you can start living the life of your dreams.
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What are Limiting Beliefs?
Your beliefs are at your core: they dictate how you think, what you say, and what you do. A limiting belief is a thought one holds about oneself that prevents action towards what you ACTUALLY want in your best life. It forms from fear-based negative self-talk, which leads to a negative mindset towards yourself, your capabilities, and the world around you. We call this a “mental phenomenon” because it is a mindset we create completely within ourselves, often without even thinking about or questioning it!
- “I don’t have the time/money/looks/personality/degree/experience… to do what I love”
- “I have no idea where to start so I might as well not bother”
- “I’m not good enough”
And the thing is, everyone has them. I’ve been an entrepreneur for the past three years and I will still catch myself holding limiting beliefs in every stage of my journey, oftentimes new ones as new challenges arise. It’s completely normal to have them, but what’s important is identifying the thoughts that don’t serve you and being aware of them!
These beliefs are all in your head, but they determine your thoughts, words, actions, and future. And the beliefs you have held your entire life has determined your present situation. Are you going to stay stuck or are you going to make a change?
What Limiting Beliefs Look Like as an Entrepreneur
Limiting beliefs are dangerous in the world of entrepreneurship because they constrict our behavior, harm our self-identity, and prevent the necessary actions needed in order to be successful. They are responsible for crushing dreams and stopping amazing ideas from being born.
- I don’t have what it takes to {start my own company, be successful etc.}
- There are already so many {entrepreneurs/influencers etc.} out there… no one is going to care about me
- It’s impossible to make 6-, 7-, 8-figures traveling and doing what you love
Being an entrepreneur requires A LOT of energy, forward-thinking, risk-taking, networking, and stepping outside your comfort zone. Limiting beliefs puts pressure on all of the above, and if you choose to accept them as fact, you will convince yourself to not even try. Or even if you do start, you’ll give up prematurely because deep down you believe it’s evidence that you’ve failed and don’t have what it takes.
You might be familiar with the fear of failing. Thoughts that pop up surrounding fear of failing as a business owner is one of the most common limiting beliefs. Another one that I experience from time to time is known as “imposter syndrome,” a belief that one is inadequate in their field or lacks the skills and ability needed to be seen as an expert. New limiting beliefs arise and that is ok as long as you catch yourself when you think these thoughts, and move past them.
How to Overcome Limiting Beliefs
The crazy thing is, all of these beliefs are IN YOUR HEAD. And good news! Anyone can overcome limiting beliefs. Check out this powerful TED Talk by Dr. Irum Tahir.
The first step to changing how you feel about yourself is identifying and being super honest about your limiting beliefs, and notice how they shape your reality. Be aware, and bring them to your attention.
The more we think about a certain thought, the more power we give it, and the more influence it has on our mindset.
For example, take the belief “I don’t have what it takes to start my own company”
This could be said in your subconscious, on repeat in your mind to the point where you believe it’s your reality. Can you see how this thought is unhelpful and serves you no purpose?
Next, challenge those beliefs, question them, and look at them from every angle.
Is it actually true? Is it just made up in my mind? Could it be that an alternative belief could ACTUALLY be the reality instead of one that does not serve you? (Remember, your past does not dictate your future, and in the end, the beliefs are in your mind!)
Take the example “I don’t have what it takes to start my own company” – think to yourself: what do you need to start your own company? Skills? A website? Determination? Ambition? A coach?
Can I learn the skills? Yes
Can I build a website or hire someone to do so? Yes
Am I determined & ambitious? Yes
Do I have the money? Maybe (How much do you actually need? Give me a number!) … and if not I can make it!
Can I hire a coach who has been there to help me with where I want to go? YES
The last step is to rewrite these beliefs to ones that EMPOWER & MOTIVATE you.
Repeat them to yourself over and over until you internalize them as facts.
- I genuinely believe that I HAVE WHAT IT TAKES to work for myself. I obviously will be successful.
- I CAN find the money, make the time, learn what I dont know ~ I control my reality
- I see SO MANY PEOPLE making a living doing what they love. It’s so possible for me and I’m so excited to do the same!
- My story is different from everyone else’s and I WILL put myself out there to impact others
Notice how these are beliefs that have the ability to positively impact your reality, but they won’t make a difference if you don’t truly change your subconscious! So also be honest with yourself if you are just saying it on the outside, without actually believing it deep down.
Be patient and give yourself time, this will not happen overnight. But having the intention is the first step.
Stay conscious. Stay aware. Stay kind. Stay mindful.
P.S. If you are ready to move past your limiting beliefs and finally start working towards the life you’ve dreamed of, with me helping you every step of the way, apply for my private business coaching. Fill out this form and we’ll set up a time to chat!
