Beliefs are interesting things. We often treat our beliefs as if they are fact. We don’t question them, or their origins, even when 
there’s something inside of us that doesn’t feel in total alignment with them. Our beliefs come from many sources: family, religion, ethnicity, education and others. When our beliefs are tied to longstanding family traditions or religion, it can be a challenge to question them. If we no longer prescribe to the beliefs that we were raised with, it can be perceived as a denial of our heritage or that we’re turning our back on our religion or our family.
Accepting the beliefs of others without questioning them, however, leaves us in an interesting position. We follow the beliefs of others without truly understanding why. We end up doing things the way they’ve always been done, resistant to change that may provide us with a more efficient or effective way of doing things. If we’re not careful, we end up closed-minded and closed off from opportunities for continuous growth and development as individuals.
“All belief that does not make us more happy, more free, more loving, more active, more calm, is, I fear a mistaken and superstitious belief.” ~ John K. Lavater
Are you holding on to beliefs that are stopping you from living the life you deserve? Often, we have limiting beliefs of what we are capable of, what kind of life we’re worthy of and what it is that we have to offer the world. Why do we hold onto beliefs that don’t contribute to our lives in a positive way? Does it make you feel good to believe that you aren’t worthy, or good enough or smart enough to achieve your goals? If you’re beliefs aren’t serving you then it’s time to take inventory of your beliefs and identify those beliefs that serve you and those that don’t.
There are times when we have a conflicting belief about a certain area of our life. Whether it’s money, marriage or career, those conflicts are guaranteed to block the flow of what it is you want in those areas of your life because you have mixed emotions about them. Consider challenging those conflicting beliefs. Look for a positive spin on the negative beliefs in your life, and see if you can turn them into affirmations that inspire and empower.
Holding onto beliefs that don’t serve us in a positive way doesn’t make sense. Like the John Lavater quote implies, I think our beliefs are there to inspire us to be the best we can be in all areas of our lives. If you have beliefs that are holding you back or making you feel powerless, it’s time to take stock of those beliefs, ridding yourself of those that don’t serve you and creating new, powerful beliefs that help you to create your best life! ♥