So you have visions of getting that big promotion in your career. Yet, even though you are clear in where you want to go, somehow you feel you are not reaching your fullest potential – something is holding you back.
I’ve often heard it said that once you get clear on what you want it will manifest effortlessly. However, the truth is, everything in the way of it manifesting is first likely to come up in your face, especially your own limiting beliefs. Then you end up with one foot on the gas pedal and one foot on the brake.
Here is a simple process you can use to reveal and then eliminate the limiting beliefs that might be getting in your way as you strive to advance in your career.
Revealing Mixed Messages (RMM) Process
Clarify. Get clear on what you want to manifest and write it down. What is your highest vision for career success?
Observe. Visualize having exactly what you wrote down, in as much detail as possible. Include all your senses. What do you see, hear, smell, or touch? Observe how you feel and the thoughts that go through your mind, both positive and negative.
Brainstorm. Take a piece of paper and divide it down the middle into two columns. At the top of one column write “Positive” and at the top of the other write “Negative.” Then list everything that occurred to you when you visualized your success (both positive and negative) in the appropriate column. Even if something seems ridiculous (especially if it’s negative) write it down.
Reveal. Everything in the positive column reaffirms why you want this success, while everything in the negative column is a limiting belief that can sabotage you. The good news is that with awareness comes liberation! So first, just read through the list of limiting beliefs and conflicting intentions. Notice any reactions you have as you do so.
Question. Then, go through each item on the negative list and ask yourself if it is true. Be honest! Often, when we bring our conscious attention to these limiting beliefs we realize they are not true. They are simply things we made up, especially when we are stressed and overwhelmed. Have you ever taken the time to call into question these self–limiting beliefs? Cross off every item on your list that is not true.
Formulate. Sometimes, the beliefs and negative thoughts holding us back are based in truths. For example, you might be dealing with long work hours due to lack of staff, irritated customers, or even issues with co – workers. Still, there are often things we can do to reduce their impact on you. Look at each limiting belief still on your list that you think is true. Then, go through them one by one (if you have more than one) and ask yourself the following question: “What could I do to reduce or eliminate the impact this challenge has on me?” Write down any ideas that occur to you.
Plan. Based on the ideas you generated in step six, create a simple plan that will help you deal with the real issues you are facing in your career. Having this in place will deflate the beliefs that were holding you back and allow you to move forward. If you need further help with this, I recommend working with a coach or an accountability partner—someone who will help you stay on track.
Along the way, it is important that you acknowledge the progress you have made. Seeing your progress gives hope, encourages you to move forward, helps you enjoy your career, and nurtures your life enthusiasm.
If you ever find yourself stuck and unable to move forward, give the RMM Process a try. What it reveals may surprise you.