A belief is a statement held by the mind as truth. It helps us to make sense of the past and predict the future. We stand on our beliefs for they are at the very core of ourselves. Beliefs influence our decisions, choices, feelings, behaviors and our automatic reactions. Beliefs create our reality and our reality confirms our beliefs.

Rules, expectations, musts, should and shouldn'ts, can and cant's, opinions, mindsets and knee jerk automatic reactions are all indications of beliefs.

Ponder these questions. Are my beliefs serving me? - Whose beliefs do I hold; mine, others, or does it belong to the culture I live in? - Am I holding beliefs that contradict each other, and if so, how do I deal with the push and pull? - Do I hold a belief so deeply it has become part of who I am? - What is my worldview according to my beliefs?

Examples of Limiting Beliefs:

• I am unlovable, unworthy. I have no right.
• Life is a struggle and everyone is out to get me.
• I am worthless. I'm stupid. I'm ugly.
• I'll never make enough money.
• If I speak up people will laugh. I have no influence.
• Expressing emotions means you're weak.
• I'm stuck in a rut and there's no way out.
• If I worry, I won't lose focus on the problem.
• I am a victim. I don't deserve it.

Examples of Life Enhancing Beliefs:

• Other people's opinions are about them.
• I am important. I am beautiful. I am smart.
• I am successful. I can do anything I choose.
• I believe I can find somebody to love.
• I enjoy eating healthy food.
• I trust myself.
• I love myself.
• I am loved.

"A belief is not an idea held by the mind, it is an idea that holds the mind"
~unknown