The List of Limiting Beliefs Examples and Test

This checklist contains 94 examples of common limiting beliefs you may want to challenge. As you go through, you might also come up with some of your own. Once your list is ready, you’ll begin challenging these beliefs with the reflective questions and examples provided. Check all that apply.

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Now that you have your list in front of you, it’s time to start challenging your limiting beliefs. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Is this true? Is there any evidence to the contrary?
• Where did this belief come from? Who or what influenced me to think this way?
• If a friend believed this about themselves, what would I say?
• How does this belief affect my behavior and choices?
• What opportunities might I be missing because of this belief?
• What could happen if I let go of this belief?
• Can I think of any times when I succeeded despite having this belief?
• What small action could I take to start changing this belief?
• How does this belief impact the way I feel about myself and others?
• How might I act differently if I didn’t believe this?
• What if I replaced this belief with something more positive?
• Do I know someone who overcame a similar limitation?
• What is a more realistic and balanced way of looking at this situation?
• Is this belief helpful, or is it causing unnecessary stress?
• Am I willing to let it go?

Here are some examples of what your answers might look like:

Belief: “I am not good enough.” – Answers
Belief: I am not the kind of person who stays in shape. – Answers
Belief: “My health prevents me from doing what others can.” – Answers