This question has deeper implications than it would seem. Generally speaking when we want to change our beliefs, we study the matter, review the evidence and reach a new conclusion. For example, we used to believe that the earth was flat, the matter was further studied, evidence pointed in a different direction, and we came to a new conclusion, we now “believe” that the earth, is in fact, round. That change was neither painful nor did it require that much work on our part.
The problem with “limiting beliefs”, however, is that they are emotionally charged and have usually been with us for many years, from infancy in some cases. We have lived through the lenses of these beliefs, acquiring as much proof as we could to validate and solidify them. From a physiological perspective, what has happened in our brain is that a neural network was formed and reinforced with every negative event. For instance, if our limiting belief is “I am worthless”, then every time we make a mistake, or something doesn’t go our way, we attribute it, not to unrelated circumstances, but to the fact that we are indeed “worthless”. These assessments seldom come without brutal judgment and a complete recall of all the other failures that have occurred due to our “worthlessness”.
Limiting beliefs are easily recognized because when we think about them we think in term of absolutes. It’s a fact, on a scale of 1 – 10 they’re a 10. Since most of these beliefs were created at a time in our life when we were learning at a different wavelength, telling ourselves now over and over again, the contrary, will not change the neural networks associated with the belief. More is needed; the change has to be done in the subconscious mind. The two most effective ways to do this is through Meditation and the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) developed by Gary Craig. CAT scans have demonstrated visible results in the brain patterns in people who meditate. I personally have found meditation to be a great way to start the day and the shifts that have occurred in my mind have been subtle but very profound. EFT on the other hand has become my favorite tool both for myself and in my practice to help shift limiting beliefs. EFT works on the same meridians as traditional acupuncture, using light tapping on specific points on the head, face and hands to release energy while you think about the limiting belief. It’s very fast and easy and can be focused on very specific beliefs. If you would like know more about EFT and the results I have achieved with it’s use, feel free to contact me.