By applying universal skills to different areas of life, another powerful element kicks in: We realize that we’re not nearly as limited as we thought we were. Even the most confident people can see themselves as more constrained in some areas than they actually are. When we understand that we already know how to achieve much more than we currently do, and that we already possess many of the required skills that a new endeavor supposedly requires, a whole new world of possibility and probability opens before us.
In a very real sense, we are primarily limited by our beliefs and self-image. But when each step of improvement brings proof of our skill, competence, and ability to accomplish our goals, we understand, on a very deep and powerful level, that we can do much more and do it more easily. As a consequence, our belief in ourselves increases, and we venture more confidently into new territory. Our capacities expand, which in turn elevates our self-esteem and self-confidence, as we strive for still higher levels. This further enhances our capacities. And on and on it goes in an ever-ascending spiral.
At a certain point, a powerful new mind set kicks in. Now, when we’re faced with a new challenge, instead of responding with the self-limiting refrain of “I can’t do that” or “But I haven’t learned how to do that yet,” we react with the enabling, energizing realization that “I have the basic skills to attempt and accomplish just about anything.” And that changes everything!
Joseph Deitch is the founder and chairman of Commonwealth Financial Network. This column is an excerpt from his book ELEVATE – An Essential Guide to Life, in which he shares his lifelong pursuit of wisdom and growth in an accessible, practical, down-to-earth gift to his readers.