Rev. Colleen Irwin

What is Holding You Back?

Our beliefs can hold us back.  Right now, I’m struggling with some of the same things I’m about to share with you.  I know I am not alone either.   These beliefs are still active in my life, but I’m working on them every day—and I believe I’m not alone in this struggle. So, this is just as much for me as it is for you. Together, let’s break free from these limiting beliefs and start making progress, even if it’s just one small step at a time.

“I Don’t Have Enough Time”

We all say we’re busy. “I don’t have enough time” is probably something I’ve told myself way too many times. But the truth? We all have the same 24 hours in a day. I’ve started tracking how I’m spending my time, and guess what? When I really look, I realize I might be wasting more time than I think. If you feel like there’s never enough time for your dreams, try tracking how you’re using your time for a week. You might just be surprised at how much room there is for the things that truly matter.

“I Don’t Have the Talent”

This is a big one for me. I’ve caught myself thinking, “I’m not good enough to do this.” It’s easy to think we need to be born with talent in order to achieve something, but that’s simply not true. Talent can be learned. Sure, I might not be the best at something right away, but that’s where growth happens. If you’ve been telling yourself that you don’t have the talent, remember this: Practice and effort will take you much further than raw talent ever will.

“Once ‘X’ Happens, I’ll Start”

How many times have I told myself, “Once I get through this (insert stressful situation), I’ll finally focus on my goals”? I’ve realized I keep waiting for the “perfect” time that never comes. Here’s the truth: There’s no perfect time. What if the very thing you’re waiting for is what could help you move forward? That marathon could be just what you need to clear your head. That salsa class might remind you that you’re worthy of fun and movement—no matter what stage you’re at in your journey. Stop waiting. Start now.

“I’m Not Good Enough”

This one really hits home for me. How many times have I asked myself, “Am I good enough to do this?” But here’s the thing: I am. And so are you. We have to learn to talk to ourselves with kindness, to make the decision to show up no matter what. If this belief is coming from outside voices, then it’s time to really question those sources. Are they helping me? Or holding me back? You are more than enough to go after your dreams.

“They Have It Easier”

I think we all do this at times—we look at others and think they’ve got it easier than we do. But I’ve come to realize we don’t always see the full picture. Everyone is fighting their own battles. Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your own journey. The grass is greener where you water it. Your progress is yours to define, and you have everything you need to move forward.

Our beliefs hold us back or propel us forward.  We are really in control of our lives.   Self-limiting beliefs can hold us back in ways we might not even realize. But we don’t have to stay stuck. Maybe take just one of these suggestions and start with that. I’m challenging myself too. Let’s take a step forward together.