Many of the beliefs we live by were formed when we were very young. An old saying, often linked to the Jesuits, suggests that the early years of life shape the person we become. Whether or not that’s entirely true, most of us carry sentences from childhood that still influence how we think and act.
Taking back our power means noticing these inherited beliefs and choosing which ones to keep.
1. Name one inherited belief
Think of a belief you’ve carried for a long time, such as I’m not creative, Money is always tight or I have to be strong. Write it down. Simply noticing that you live inside this sentence is a powerful first step.
2. Ask where it came from
Was it something a parent said, a lesson from school or a conclusion you reached after a hard experience? Understanding a belief’s origin can help you see it as one perspective, not the whole truth.
3. Decide whether it still serves you
Some inherited beliefs are helpful, like Be kind to others. Others may hold you back. You get to decide which ones to keep, revise or let go.
4. Take one small step
Changing a belief often starts with action. If you believe you’re not creative, try drawing for five minutes. If you believe you have to be strong, let someone help you with something small.
You are not your conditioning
Your genes, upbringing and experiences shape you, but they don’t have to define you completely. You can keep learning and growing at any age.
How little is enough
Write down one belief you inherited, then write a kinder, truer version beside it.
For more, read Overcome victim consciousness with this one simple change.
If writing helps you make sense of change, there’s a short guided journal waiting on the Guides page.