Workbook12

Changing Belief Systems

The Origin of Beliefs

All of us hold numerous beliefs that we may have never questioned. We have beliefs regarding everything in our lives. Where did those beliefs come from? What if they're erroneous? What if these beliefs are holding you back, limiting you self-expression, and inhibiting your emotions?

When we were children, we struggled not only to learn to use our bodies but to understand the world around us. We looked to those who had gone before us, such as our parents, siblings and extended family, for answers.

Wee learned the majority of our beliefs in childhood. We watched, listened and absorbed what the models around us believed. They believed what the believed in such a convincing way that we were thoroughly convinced that they were true and simply adopted their beliefs. For example, if you had a fearful parent, every time you attempted to explore experiences he or she was afraid. Your parents became uncomfortable and emotionally convinced that you were in danger. You observed your parent becoming anxious and emotionally dramatic, so of course you took the fear seriously. If the danger was valid, you learned a good lesson, but if the danger was invalid, you learned to limit your experience.

The Pollyanna Syndrome

To find emotional balance, it is necessary to take off your rose-colored glasses and take a look at things as they really are. It is dangerous to assume that other people are at heart good and will do the right thing. That erroneous belief has wounded more people than you can imagine. I would be the first person to make the spiritual argument that deep within everyone's soul there is a wonderful being.