We all have certain beliefs about who we are and what we can do. Most of these beliefs stem from our childhood where usually our parents had a big influence when it comes to the development of our identity. As we grow up we change and so should our beliefs but typically they don’t. Once we developed a certain identity we don’t really bother thinking about it. We simply accept it as part of our being, as part of who we are.
But what if these beliefs are part of the reason why we are not able to achieve our goals? Wouldn’t it be worth taking a closer look at them and maybe revise them?
Let’s take a look and see if you have any beliefs, any parts of your identity, that are limiting you in any way. Grab a piece of paper and a pen and write down who you are. Begin every sentence with I AM. Here are a few examples: I am pretty. I am shy. I am lazy. I am an introvert. You get the picture. Take a few minutes now to write everything down that comes to mind. You might end up with a list of 5 I am statements or with 30. Either way is fine!
Now reread all these statements and circle the ones that are limiting you, that are holding you back from achieving your goals, and that you don’t want or need anymore.
Done? Good!
Now replace these statements. Think about the person you need to become in order to be able to live the life you desire. Maybe you want to be able to run a 5k at the end of the year. In that case” I am a couch potato” won’t be a good way to think about yourself. You could switch it up to “I am a runner” or “I am sporty”.
The important part here is that you create the statements in the presence as if you already were this person.
The funny thing about our brain is that whenever we start a sentence with “I am”, it takes this statement as a reality and will do everything it can to align your actions with who you think you are. Next time you are beating yourself up for something you do (“I am so stupid!”) keep that in mind!
Take your pen and create your new identity statement now!
Now take the statements that will help you on your journey to becoming more healthy and fitter. Read them every day. Every morning, take a look in the mirror and read your new I am statements out loud. It might feel a little uncomfortable at first but it will help you shift your energy and your focus from who you used to be to who you want to become.
Written by: Jen
The Online Personal Trainer for Women