Everything we take for granted is constantly changing. The formation of the clouds in the sky at this moment is unique and will never be repeated. Every cell in our bodies is replaced—some quickly, some more slowly—every seven years. Our planet and the universe are in a state of continual, inconceivable transformation.

The fact that everything changes is good news. Or actually, as Buddhists and scientists would say, it is neither good news nor bad news. It is what is, neither good nor bad . . . and this is good news! However, we often find it difficult to accept change and the uncertainty that goes along with it. We grasp at what we know and what is familiar, resisting anything that might take us out of our comfort zone; we hold on to limiting and self-defeating beliefs because it seems safer. But these beliefs only reflect what we think we know about ourselves. (I’m not a good cook; I don’t speak well in public)—not what we might actually be able to achieve. Sometimes we resist positive change rather than let go of what we already have.

Try exploring listening to, uncovering, and expressing a variety of beliefs, which often change from moment to moment. Or, at times, we can get stuck in our limiting beliefs. Just by identifying our limiting beliefs and replacing them with more open ended beliefs, we can reduce resistance to change and open to growth and new possibilities.

Below is a list I formulated for myself, which you can use as a guide.

Limiting beliefs:
I don’t have enough time (I’m too busy!).
I don’t have enough experience.
I’m not smart enough.
I’m usually quite stubborn.

Open-ended beliefs:
I am clear about priorities and my ability to respond.
I know my strengths and what I still need to learn.
I love to learn new things and I’m smart enough.
I can learn from my mistakes.

Write down your open-ended beliefs on sticky notes or three-by-five index cards as daily reminders placed in your office, wallet, or purse. Notice how, one at a time, these more open-ended beliefs challenge your more limiting beliefs. Also, consider what you gain from holding on to your limiting beliefs. There are always reasons—often fairly compelling though not particularly useful ones—that we hold on to limiting beliefs for so long.

What are some of your limiting and open-end beliefs?