When I Let Go of Healing My Voice

Limiting beliefs are like invisible chains that hold us back from expanding into our potential and impact. They’re the stories we tell ourselves about our worth, our abilities, and our possibilities. These beliefs often form in our early years, just as mine did when at a young age I encountered a sign in the rec room of my parents’ friends that read: Children are to be seen, not heard.

“That’s the rule,” I thought to myself. “Don’t speak up. Don’t speak out. Don’t make noise.” From my perspective, I had experienced that rule as the unspoken expectation within my family of origin, but I had never seen it so clearly articulated before that moment. It was one of many moments that reinforced an imaginary muzzle I wore for years to come. A muzzle that came in the form of feeling inadequate about my ability to speak up about my truth. I believed that I didn’t know how to talk about the things I really wanted to. And even if I could, no one would understand and no one would care. 

It wasn’t until decades later that I became aware of that limiting belief living inside me, which had ultimately grown stifling and outdated. Questioning its validity was a crucial first step. And gradually, I began to seek out ways to reclaim my point of view, to take a stand, and to heal my voice so I could finally feel seen and heard.

As part of that reclamation, I began telling others I was working on healing my voice so they could understand that while I was working to set down my ingrained limiting belief, those muscles were a little weak and this would take work. It was a struggle at first. I was scared but willing to take on the challenge and sought support from people I trusted. And over time, “I’m healing my voice” became my new belief. 

Until recently ...

Just months ago, in a circle of trusted sisters, it dawned on me that my voice was healed! Yet I was still walking through life with the belief that I was working on healing my voice. And that mindset, which had once been an empowering reframe, no longer felt valid or helpful. In fact, I was reinforcing the idea that my voice still needed healing when I was done with that. The healing had come, and it was time for a belief upgrade.

While limiting beliefs often manifest as negative thoughts or beliefs about oneself, it’s also common to carry around beliefs that might not seem negative on the surface but hold you back anyway because they’re outdated or untrue. I call them “good enough” beliefs. Yes, you actually limit yourself and suppress your unborn potential with recurring thoughts like “it’s good enough” or “well, I’m working on that.” While this may be true and helpful at times, pay close attention to when and where you might be using it as a crutch.

So when a “good enough” belief isn’t serving you and no longer feels empowering, how do you install a belief upgrade?

Challenge the Belief

Once identified, it's essential to challenge the validity of these “good enough” beliefs. Ask yourself: Is this belief really serving me now, or is it keeping me stuck? Does this belief help me expand into the future, or does it keep me back in yesteryear?

Upgrade the Narrative

Think big. Think bold. And think about what your future self wants you to know. Your upgraded belief should reflect the opportunity for growth, not maintaining the status quo. This shift in perspective invites your unborn potential to start revealing itself to you in miraculous ways. If you name it, you can claim it. You have that much power!

Cultivate Self-Compassion

Letting go of any limiting or “good enough” belief requires self-compassion. Be kind to yourself and recognize that everyone is a work in progress. Growth is natural and with it comes growing pains. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a dear friend.

Surround Yourself with Positivity

Your environment plays a crucial role in shaping your beliefs. Surround yourself with positive influences like supportive friends and family, inspirational books or talks, and activities and experiences that uplift and encourage you to reach new heights.

Take Action

Upgrading one’s beliefs is a journey that requires consistent effort. Taking stock of what’s bumping around in your mind is a life-long process. And some beliefs will need many upgrades over time, others very few. Simply notice, keep your heart open to what’s longing to come through, and upgrade your beliefs accordingly to keep up with your own evolution as you continue to expand and grow into your best future self. 

So … want to know my new belief upgrade since I let go of healing my voice?

I use my voice as a powerful instrument of love! I believe this belief will serve me for life.