We, coaches, often tend to identify them in our clients' thinking, dismantle their logic, or even subtly challenge their purpose.
However, we should not forget that various limiting beliefs, as well as cognitive biases, are actually precious to people.
Why? Because they help us survive. Or at least this is what our brains 'think'. 🧠
If let's say, John feared public speaking his whole life, as it prevented him from experiencing the nightmares of shame and ridicule, why would he suddenly want to give up his limiting belief?
Limiting beliefs are OK as long as you (1) are aware of them, (2) you consciously choose to live according to their rules, and (3) you are happy about their function. ☀️
Unless we enjoy chaos, we don't have to open up or say YES to every possibility.
What we CAN do is change our communication by putting the limiting belief at the beginning of the sentence and finishing with a positive one.
Example: I fear public speaking, but I would love to learn it in the future!
The formula is especially useful when we have to say NO to another person, but we want to maintain a constructive relationship.
Life is complex, so we should better start enjoying the fruits of it. 😌
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