Your Thoughts Are Writing Your Future
Have you ever noticed how some people always find a reason why things won’t work out for them?
“I’m not smart enough.”
“People like me don’t get those opportunities.”
“I’ve always been bad at math.”
“I’m just not a creative person.”
These aren’t just random thoughts – they’re stories. Stories we tell ourselves about who we are, what we can do, and what’s possible in our lives.
And here’s the thing: these stories are building you into who you are right now. Your life today is a direct result of the stories you’ve told yourself.
A couple of years ago I found myself in a toxic work situation. My manager at the time had become increasingly negative and highly critical of anything I did.
I spent nights dreading the work week and thinking about her words. What I didn’t realize was that it had started to affect my confidence.
I began second-guessing myself, doubting my competencies and ended up making mistakes I would have never made in the past.
Months later, I started a new role with a different organization, and I subconsciously assumed that my new manager was the same as the previous one.
Boy was I wrong. This new environment was positive and set up for my success. However, I realized that if I didn’t deal with those stories, it would impact my performance.
The stories we tell ourselves become self-fulfilling prophecies.
When you repeatedly tell yourself you’re bad at something, you stop trying to improve and make decisions that align with that belief.
It works the other way too.
People who achieve great things often have stories playing in their heads like:
- “I belong here”
- “I can figure this out”
- “Setbacks are just temporary”
These aren’t delusions – they’re enabling beliefs that create real results.
Think about the most confident person you know. I bet they have a positive story about themselves and their actions flow from that story.
The great news is that you get to choose your stories. And no, this is not lying to yourself or pretending life is perfect. It's being intentional about the meaning you draw from your experiences.
For example, instead of “I failed because I’m not good enough,” try “I failed because I’m still learning.” Same experience with a completely different meaning.
Start paying attention to the stories running through your mind. When you catch a negative one, ask yourself:
- Is this true?
- Does this help me?
- What’s a better story I could tell instead?
Remember, the stories you tell yourself aren’t just thoughts – they’re the very foundation for your self-belief. Choose them wisely.
Rooting for you always!
