Believing Is Seeing

You heard me.

For many of the clients I work with, a recurring theme can be self-limiting beliefs.

Of course, limits can be useful and life saving - they provide structure and stability in many situations. But they also stop us doing seemingly simple things that could actually enhance our lives.

A lot of coaching sessions can involve breaking down these belief systems and opening up a world clients have denied themselves for too long. I even find myself being frustrated when a client will state with absolute conviction, a list of reasons they can't do something - especially when it is something they are desperately keen to try.

I can't start my own business - it is too complicated.

I can't sign up for this course - I am not smart enough.

I can't go to the pictures myself - people will think I am a weirdo.

While I am able to discuss and coach around the self-limiting beliefs of clients, I found myself in a position to confront my own restricted views on life - and it was an eye opener!

I have never been one to wear a lot of make up. I find it a faff and take no time to find the right colours, shades and whatever else is deemed to be 'the look'. I tend to go to Boots and pick up a few bits and pieces and make do.

I had been called out on this by my sister who took me under her wing and into a department store. I was so uncomfortable. I realised that I have always felt these places are for 'the beautiful people'. The more uncomfortable I feel the more awkward I look as I shuffle around looking at bottles in shades various. I am not really one for department stores and certainly not the 'products' sections. Upon being approached by a lovely sales woman, I was swept up into a world of foam cleansers, foundations and bronzers. She was so lovely and engaging that I found myself telling her how intimidated I was by the whole experience. She was shocked as she wondered how anyone could be intimidated when surrounded by fabulous colours and amazing fragrances. She couldn't believe it.

The truth was - neither could I.

I loved it - she opened up a new world for me and it became a world I deserved to be a part of. The make up itself is lovely and I am pleased with it. It is understated and natural and very 'me'. But that is not the point really. I was nudged into confronting the invisible self -constructed barriers I had been scared of crossing - it was a wee bit anxiety inducing ...for about 10 seconds and then it became a funny, liberating and incredibly positive experience.

When I woke up this morning and reflected on the day, I felt a bit of pride and have now been thinking...what is next for me? If I can go and get colour matched in a busy department store with all the glam types - I can do anything!

The truth is no one is looking at me buying make up - they never were. The limits were being set by myself and no one else. If you live life by your own limits you could be cheating yourself out of some beautiful and uplifting experiences.

So have a wee think? What scares you and why? Should you be doing something about it and where do you start?

If you don't know the next step then drop me a line .....change is constant, difficult and glorious!

Believe it! Believe it, take action - and you will see it.