We are our own enemies

Yes, you read that right. Let me explain.

How many times have you either approached a job interview or handled a new project or a new situation or getting into a new routine with the below thought(s)?

‘I don’t think I can make it.’

‘I don’t think I have enough experience for this role.’

‘I don’t have the time.’

‘There is no way I can do this.’

‘I know for sure I am going to suck at this role.’

‘I am too old for this role.’

Sounds all too familiar, does it not? When we talk to ourselves, do we talk in a self-limiting way, posing questions like the above? Then, we are indeed our own enemies. We do not need anyone else to pull us down. We have mastered the art of speaking of ourselves in a disparaging manner. These self-limiting beliefs have the power to make us reject new opportunities, make us not believe in our own strengths and keep us away from being agile and flexible to change.

If you accept a limiting belief, then it will become a truth for you – Louise Hay, famous American motivational speaker

If there is one universal lesson that COVID-19 has taught us, it is the importance of adapting to ever evolving situation and being quick with our decisions. I think, the whole world has now become a giant startup! If you can’t change and weave yourself to this new so-called ‘normal’, be ready to perish.

By believing in our own self-limiting beliefs, we are no longer in control of our own lives. In these challenging times, more than ever, what we need is a powerful grip on the situation, clarity of our own expectations and beliefs and the courage to surge ahead. In multiple webinars, I have heard views that say this is not the right time to change your job. That to me is a great example of limiting one’s potential. Should there be something out there, nothing should stop you from exploring, least of all your own self-limiting beliefs. These limiting beliefs can act as barriers in you achieving your career goals. Or take another – ‘the new world will demand more from us.’ Sure, it will. But what if we look at that in a positive manner? What if we collate all our experiences during this crisis and pick up new skills, learn and grow? I am absolutely certain that we will be more than ready to embrace the new world and what it will demand from us.

Your mind is a kaleidoscope

I have always been fascinated by the kaleidoscope. Remember how new patterns are formed when you move the kaleidoscope? Fascinating, isn’t it? Now, think of your mind as a kaleidoscope. Learn to shift your thinking when stuck by your own beliefs at some point. You will notice how a new pattern emerges that has the potential to steer your thoughts in a different direction.

Communicators and PR firms need to be versatile. On any given week, I attend at least 4-5 webinars, and the breadth and depth of some of them is mind boggling! Do not let your limiting belief tell you that you do not know anything about this subject or that you do not know the speakers and don’t let that stop you from learning. Jump in and absorb. This is your time to be that sponge who is hungry for knowledge. There is an abundance of learning opportunities on line either through classes, debates, webinars, masterclass or just sharing platforms. Move out of your comfort zone and pick up a new skill or subject or just deepen your knowledge of what you are best at.

We all need positive experiences that can help propel our growth. The good thing is that we can create positive moments for ourselves by shifting the way we think and by not letting our self-limiting beliefs act as a barrier.

Believe that – 

You have it in you to harness new opportunities.

You can ace that interview.

You will figure a way out and find a solution in just about any situation.

The views and opinions published here belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher.

Sarita Bahl

Sarita Bahl is an alumnus of Tata Institute of Social Sciences and the Swedish Institute of Management Program. An experienced and versatile leader, she comes with nearly four decades of professional experience. She has over the years successfully overseen the communications and public affairs function and led the corporate social responsibility strategy for Bayer South Asia, Pfizer, and Monsanto, among others. Sarita has held multiple roles across diverse industries, the public sector, trade associations, MNCs, and the not-for-profit sector. Her areas of interest include advocacy, stakeholder engagement, sustainability, and communications.

As an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and Senior Practitioner (Mentoring) from the European Council of Mentoring and Coaching (EMCC), Sarita specializes in career transition, inner engineering and life issues. Sarita enjoys writing and is passionate about animals, books, and movies.