I once volunteered for Dress for Success, supporting young women who wanted more out of life. Some of these women were homeless and had grown up in highly dysfunctional environments where alcohol and drugs were the norm. Many were told they would never amount to anything and never received the love and support of a parent or grandparent.

All of us have been told things that weren’t true, and as children, we didn’t question them. Now is the time to re-examine the dysfunctional beliefs and actions we inherited. If you’re reading this, I’m sure you’ve been on your path for a while and have already recognized some of these patterns in your own life.

If your parents were unhappy, they likely passed down many of their negative beliefs to you. As children, we absorbed what was said to us without question. But today, we have choices—we don’t have to accept negativity as truth. Those who operate from a place of negativity are coming from lack. While we can’t change the beliefs of others, we can change our own.

Growing up in an environment without self-respect often leads to more disrespect. People tend to repeat the behaviors that were modeled for them. Do you see any evidence of this in your life?

Are you determined, like these young women, to break free from old patterns and become independent of dysfunctional behaviors? Are you ready to change your mindset and truly love yourself?

Take a moment to reflect on these questions:

• Do you find yourself making excuses that sabotage your success?
• Do you sometimes blame your circumstances on others?
• Do you feel a lack of time, money, or meaningful relationships?
• What would your life look like if you stopped believing your negative thoughts?

Our thoughts shape our reality. By continually repeating the same limiting beliefs, we create patterns that hold us back. The ego—(Edging God Out)—works tirelessly to keep us stuck in an old mindset. But negative thoughts are not truly yours. You can release them. Imagine letting them go, as if they were bubbles floating away.

Once you recognize these thoughts, write down new, empowering ones. Visualize your new life with emotion, as if it has already happened. Continue to do this daily, reinforcing your new mindset.

I help clients uncover old patterns and beliefs that no longer serve them and replace them with new, empowering ones. Together, we create a plan of action that transforms their lives.

If you feel weighed down by negativity and want a happier, healthier life, I’m here to support and guide you on your journey. Change your mind, and your life will change. You are in control.