The Lies That Hold Us back...#5

Myth vs. Action Step

Do you ever think things like “I’m just not smart enough” or “I’ll never be talented enough to succeed”? I know I have. But these disempowering myths only hold us back from reaching our limitless potential. In his book Limitless, Jim Kwik explains these 7 lies that we tell ourselves in greater detail, I have read his book a couple of times over the last 3 years and find it fantastic. Let’s expose some common misbeliefs so we can overcome them.

#Myth 1: Intelligence is Fixed

We tend to think we’re born with a set amount of intelligence that can’t change. But the brain is remarkably flexible. Our IQ can grow based on mindset and effort. When we believe we can get smarter, we do. 

Action Step: Adopt a growth mindset. View your abilities as expandable. Allow yourself to make mistakes as you take on new learning challenges. You’ve got this!

#Myth 2: Mistakes are Failures

Many of us fear mistakes, so we play it safe. But mistakes are vital for growth! They aren’t failures, but lessons to build upon. The most successful people view mistakes as stepping stones.

Action Step: When you make a mistake, ask yourself “What can I learn here?” Extract the insight so you can continue moving forward with new wisdom.

#Myth 3: Genius is Born

We put genius on a pedestal, assuming it’s innate. But genius is cultivated through deep practice over time. Greatness is grown, not bestowed at birth. We all have unique seeds of genius we can nourish.

Action Step: Commit to at least 10 focused minutes of practice per day on a skill you want to improve. Genius is a marathon, not a sprint. With consistency, skills compound.

#Myth 4: Knowledge is Power

We’re told knowledge is power, so we obsessively consume information. But knowledge alone is useless unless applied. True power lies in taking action.

Action Step: Stop passively accumulating facts. Actively apply your knowledge in concrete ways. Knowledge fuels power only through action.

#Myth 5: Learning is Very Difficult

Because formal education often requires significant effort, we assume learning is hard. With the right mindset and methods, it doesn’t have to be! Learning can be fun when you take small, consistent steps.

Action Step: Break learning up into bite-sized chunks. Be patient with yourself as you put in the effort. Progress will come!

Which myth are you ready to put to rest? What action will you take today? You are far more capable than you know. I hope this empowers you to see yourself and your potential in a new light too. What beliefs are holding you back? How will you put these myths to rest starting today?