Mindfulness Series
- Dr. Tee
- Jul 10, 2024
- 3 min read
There are very few limitations on our capabilities and ability to achieve our personal and professional goals (that don’t harm others and our environment of course) than the ones we impose on ourselves. Self-imposed mental barriers can significantly limit our own achievement and desires in various ways that will make us wish for different. I remember when in my youth I suffered many fears and anxieties back then; in daily activities that caused me to make decisions that limited what I could really do. I would get nervous and sick before going off to elementary school some mornings and then in my middle school years I would remember many times daydreaming of adventures and things I wish I could do. As I grew older, I missed some opportunities that changed the trajectory of my career and still sometimes fear of the unknown hastens my thought processes. However, what I learned along the way was that sometimes we may want to consider practicing the art of study, try and self-reflection as we go about activities we desire to accomplish or achieve. But one thing we should consider and include is not letting the mistakes or failures we are most likely to face impede upon new possibilities to move forward and begin anew. These things I learned over time and became part of my practicing mindfulness and to learn to “think and be” in the present as much as I could. Even as an adult from time to time I encounter these fears and anxieties, I remember and remind myself to not dwell in them but to move forward despite them.
The reason I believe regularly practicing the steps of study, try, and self-reflection to be important, is that to continue with fear and doubts without practicing mindfulness can be restricting of intellectual and physical potential in various ways. These self-imposed barriers can:
Create artificial limitations on what we believe we can achieve, causing us to set lower goals and expectations for ourselves (2). We may even avoid pursuing ambitious dreams or opportunities due to self-doubt, later wishing we had not.
Cause lack of forward momentum: When we allow self-limiting beliefs to drive us, we often fail to make progress towards our goals (2). This stagnation can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and fulfillment.
Missed opportunities: By placing artificial limits on ourselves, we may pass up chances for growth and advancement (2). We might talk ourselves out of applying for promotions, starting businesses, or taking calculated risks.
Create negative self-fulfilling prophecies: Our beliefs shape our actions, which in turn influence our outcomes. When we believe we're not capable or deserving of success or accomplishments, we may unconsciously sabotage our own efforts (1).
Here are some ways we can overcome these self-imposed barriers, it's crucial to:
Cultivate self-awareness through reflection and mindfulness (4)
Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations (4)
Take small, consistent actions to build confidence and prove our capabilities (3,4)
Seek support from mentors or a strong network (4)
By addressing and overcoming these mental barriers, we can begin on a path to unlock our full potential and achieve greater success in our personal and professional lives. Remember that taking time to study, try and practice self-reflection presents opportunities for growth and appreciation of yourself and how far you have come and to continue to move forward towards Your Best Health!
Dr. Tee
To Your Best Health
7 July 2024
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