Limiting beliefs

A Venn diagram picturing the traditional definition of knowledge as justified true belief (That is represented by the yellow circle).

Limiting beliefs "are beliefs we hold about our abilities or potential that can prevent us from pursuing something we want or need."

Characteristics of limiting beliefs

Below are common characteristics of limiting beliefs:

1. Limiting beliefs are often formed subconsciously and/or unconsciously

2. Are treated as truths - even though they may be untrue.

3. Assume that there is undeniable evidence that supports such a truth

4. Have a negativity bias (rather than assume we can we assume we can’t). See: Positive thinking and Negative thinking and Optimism and Pessimism

5. Might be excuses, justifications, worries, perfectionist thinking, fears, etc. See: Excusitis and Rationalization (Psychology)

See also

• Irrational thinking
• Negative thinking
• Self-doubt
• Jonah complex
• Cognitive bias
• Rational thinking

External links

• Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs by Melanie A. McNally Psy.D.
• Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs by Melanie McNally, PsyD
• How to Overcome Your Limiting Beliefs
• 6 Steps to Breaking Your Limiting Beliefs
• Recognizing Core Limiting Beliefs by John. J. Prendergast, Phd
• 22 Limiting Beliefs (Almost) Everyone Has and How to Deal With Them
• 10 limiting beliefs and how to overcome them